by Kacey Stapleton

Created on: January 10, 2009   Last Updated: October 09, 2009

Nature gives us a cup of instant relief in the form herbal teas. As an added bonus in certain herbs we find properties that lessen the symptoms of many common ailments. Grabbing a box of over-the-counter remedies might be quicker than brewing your own tea, but you get a different measure of well-being from using a more natural method.

If you'd like to create a cupboard full of favorite remedies a good start is with feverfew. The herb influences serotonin a neurotransmitter which modulates anger, aggression, body temperature, sleep, appetite, mood and even metabolism. Feverfew inhibits inflammation and the constriction of blood vessels making this herb helpful with migraines, cluster type headaches, pain associated with menstruation, and the general achy feeling experienced in the first stages of a cold or flu.

If you suffer from allergies antihistamines are your best bets for relief. You can find them over the counter or in a soothing cup of butterbur, or quercetin. While the name doesn't sound appetizing stinging nettle is a natural antihistamine and doesn't cause the drowsiness often experience with most medications. Camomile slows down the body's reaction to allergens by increasing the adrenal gland's production of cortisone reducing inflammation in the lung. Naturally, you'd never want to discontinue using any of your regular medications without consulting your physician first especially if you suffer difficulty breathing or use an inhaler.

Devil's claw is known to sooth the pain of arthritis. Named for its fruit, which resembles a wizened hand this herb's use in Africa started before recorded memory. Popular in Europe for over 300 years Devil's claw is believed to reduce pain and improve mobility.

If you're spending more time at the gym you might want to try a few herbs known to calm muscle spasms such as Valerian, skullcap, and lemon balm all of which have relaxing properties. You should be completely cooled down from exercising before having a hot drink, but don't wait too long after your workout or the effects will be wasted. If it's your nerves getting the workout chamomile, rosemary and mint are helpful. These herbs are known to calm sleeplessness, anxiety and stress.

Health food stores and herbal suppliers usually keep reference books giving symptoms, herbal remedy and the correct portion of herb per cup. If you can't find such a shop in your area check your local library for herbal guides. Keep all herbs separated and stored in an individual clear re-sealable plastic bag if possible and label each one by its proper name, usage, and dosage. Once you know the correct portions measure out the needed herb into a reusable cloth teabag or paper filter and prepare as directed by your guide.

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