by Silvia Dekumbis

Created on: July 07, 2010

Herbs are not only suitable for use in the kitchen.  Many of them also possess natural healing powers, especially beneficial to the human body.  The study of herbs and their effects in relation to health is as old as mankind. 

This knowledge of medicinal herbs has been passed down from generation to generation. During medieval times monks cultivated herbs, studying the effects they had on the human body.  Even the world outside the monastery walls possessed a profound knowledge of the healing powers of nature. It was mainly women though, who had preserved this knowledge and passed it on from generation to generation.  Often though, through their extensive knowledge, they were passed as witches and burnt at the stake.

With the advent of modern medicine, the knowledge of the healing properties of herbs was almost lost.  Only in recent times a growing interest in medicinal herbs and their effects has emerged, bringing man once again closer to nature.

This page presents ten of the most popular medicinal herbs:

Arnica:  This yellow flower has been used to treat various types of injuries such as bruises, rheumatic joint and muscle complaints, even edema. Arnica does contain toxic substances. Therefore, it should not be used internally. Arnica gained popularity in the 19th century.  It was collected in such large quantities that it was threatened with extinction. For that reason this special flower is now protected.

Comfrey:  The healing effects of comfrey can be traced back to the ancient world.  Today, it is being used mainly for bruises, contusions and strains. Comfrey also alleviates the symptoms of tendon and muscle inflammation, including sore muscles. It is either applied as a paste or ointment to the affected body parts. It is not suitable for pregnant women, during lactation, and for children!

St. John's Wort: St. John's Wort helps with psycho-vegetative disorders, depressive mood disorders, anxiety, and restlessness. St. John's Wort is usually administered in the form of a tea.

Chamomile: The essential oils of chamomile have a calming, healing, anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effect on the body.  Chamomile is being administered for stomach pains, intestinal irregularities and even menstrual cramps. Applied externally, chamomile helps against inflammation of the skin, mucous membranes and gums.

Cumin: It is the best herb to stimulate digestion and to prevent bloating.  It also promotes the formation of breast milk and has been helping young children and infants to alleviate gastric problems.

Lavender:  It does not only play an important role in the perfume industry, but has been known as a calming herb. Lavender tea helps against stomach and intestinal complaints, including restlessness.

Rosemary:  In addition to adding flavor to many Mediterranean dishes, rosemary also plays an important role in natural healing. It helps combat fatigue and circulatory deficiencies.  In addition, it promotes the health of stomach, intestine and gallbladder. 

Celery:  Primarily known as a vegetable, celery is also frequently used in herbal medicine. Celery juice is suitable for purification and thus helps with diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, obesity, constipation, rheumatism, arthritis, and edema.

Wild Pansies:  The anti-inflammatory compounds found in wild pansies are similar to that of cortisone.  This flower has been mainly used to combat skin problems such as acne, eczema, impetigo, diaper rash and cradle cap.

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