by Marie N. Riddle

Created on: January 09, 2009   Last Updated: July 04, 2009

The quantity of medications on the market today is astonishing. There is a drug out there to treat almost any ailment, and a number of side effects to accompany every one. If you are seriously ill or suffering from symptoms that are unexplained or constant, then a trip to the doctor is a good idea. But the idea of loading up on chemicals at the slightest sniffle is not very appealing, and neither is suffering without relief.

For thousands of years mankind has been using herbs medicinally, and modern science has been proving many of these to be effective. Countless plants can provide natural relief without many of the side effects that drugs can have, and more than you think are probably already in your kitchen cabinets. You can use these to make your own remedies by simply brewing tea.

Dried Yarrow flowers can help dry mucus in the sinuses and chest, from illness or nasal allergies. It is a great treatment for dental problems, because it is a coagulant- meaning it slows or stops bleeding by increasing clotting, it is anti-bacterial, and it can also relieve pain. You can also use it to treat heavy menstrual bleeding or bleeding stomach ulcers. It should not be used by anyone with any kind of heart problem, especially if they are taking blood thinners, because it increases clotting.

Grated Ginger root can be used to treat almost any stomach complaint, including cramping, diarrhea, bloating, gas, flatulence, vomiting, and nausea; it will also help to warm you if you are chilled. You can drink ginger tea before any activity that causes motion sickness as a preventative.

Dried Catnip leaves are a fantastic sleep aid that is not addictive and will not cause you to feel dizzy or groggy the next day.

Lemon Balm is used to promote an overall calm feeling and can be especially helpful with tension headaches. And it will slightly lower your blood pressure. It should not be used by people with low blood pressure or people taking blood pressure medication. You should also not use Lemon Balm if you have decreased thyroid function.

Chamomile flower tops are to treat a variety of ailments, such as stomach pain, irritable bowel syndrome, and it has some ant-microbial properties. It is very calming, and is safe for any age group. It can also ease muscle cramping and pain, including menstrual cramps. Avoid Chamomile if you are allergic to Ragweed.

Cinnamon is good for relieving stomach cramps and gas, and it is anti-microbial, so it might help shorten a cold,

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