Herbalist Remedies for Common Health Issues

Traditionally used to soothe upset stomachs, relieve gas and bloating, ease nausea, and support overall digestion. Often consumed as a post-meal tea.

Peppermint oil, particularly its active compound menthol, has antispasmodicHelps to relieve muscle spasms, particularly in the smooth muscles of the digestive tract. properties, helping to relax the smooth muscles of the digestive tract. This can ease cramping and spasms associated with indigestion and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Studies on enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules have shown benefits for IBS symptoms. It may also help stimulate bile flow, aiding in fat digestion.

Tea: Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried peppermint leaves (or a few fresh sprigs) in hot water for 5-10 minutes.
Essential Oil (diluted, topical): For abdominal massage (highly diluted in a carrier oil). Internal use of essential oil should only be under professional guidance.
Enteric-coated capsules: Often used for IBS under guidance.

Generally safe for most people when consumed as tea. May relax the lower esophageal sphincter, potentially worsening heartburn/GERD in some individuals. Avoid high doses of peppermint oil internally unless under professional care. Not recommended for infants or very young children (especially the essential oil near the face).

Long used in Ayurveda, TCM, and Western herbalism to combat nausea (including motion sickness and morning sickness), improve digestion, relieve gas, bloating, and stomach cramps. Considered a warming digestive stimulant.

Ginger contains active compounds like gingerols and shogaolsBioactive compounds in ginger responsible for many of its pungent and medicinal properties., which have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiemetic (anti-nausea) properties. It can stimulate digestive enzyme secretion, increase gastrointestinal motility (helping food move through the system), and has shown efficacy in studies for reducing nausea and vomiting from various causes. It may also help soothe an irritated gut lining.

Tea: Simmer 1-2 thin slices of fresh ginger root (or 1/2 teaspoon dried powder) in hot water for 10-15 minutes.
Culinary: Added fresh or dried to foods.
Capsules/Tinctures: Standardized extracts are available.
Candied Ginger: Small amounts for mild nausea.

Generally safe in culinary and moderate medicinal doses. High doses might cause mild heartburn or digestive upset in some. Use with caution if you have gallstones (may stimulate bile flow) or bleeding disorders, or are taking blood-thinning medication (consult doctor). Safe in moderation during pregnancy for morning sickness, but consult a healthcare provider.

Traditionally used to soothe indigestion, gas, bloating, colic in infants, and stress-related digestive upset. Also valued for its calming effects, promoting relaxation and sleep.

Chamomile contains compounds like apigenin, bisabolol, and chamazuleneKey anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and calming compounds found in chamomile flowers., which possess anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and mild sedative properties. It can help relax intestinal muscles, reduce inflammation in the gut lining, and its calming effect on the nervous system can indirectly benefit digestion, especially when stress is a factor. Some studies support its use for generalized anxiety and sleep quality.

Tea: Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers in hot water for 5-10 minutes. Cover while steeping to retain volatile oils.
Tincture: A concentrated liquid extract.
Essential Oil (diluted, topical): Used in aromatherapy for calming.

Generally very safe for most people, including children. Allergic reactions are rare but possible, especially for those allergic to ragweed or other plants in the Asteraceae family. If you have such allergies, use with caution or avoid.

Traditionally used to ease anxiety, nervousness, restlessness, and mild depression. Valued for its ability to soothe “nervous stomach” issues and promote restful sleep, especially when related to stress.

Lemon balm contains compounds like rosmarinic acid and volatile oils (citral, citronellal) that may interact with GABAGamma-aminobutyric acid, an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain that promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety. receptors in the brain, promoting calmness. Some studies suggest it can improve mood, reduce anxiety levels, and enhance cognitive function, particularly memory and attention. It also has mild antiviral properties, especially against the herpes simplex virus (cold sores) when applied topically.

Tea: Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried leaves (or a handful of fresh leaves) in hot water for 10-15 minutes. Cover to retain volatile oils. Enjoy its pleasant lemony flavor.
Tincture: A concentrated liquid extract.
Capsules: Standardized extracts are available.
Topical Cream/Salve: For cold sores (often combined with other antivirals).

Generally very safe. May cause mild drowsiness in some, so use caution if driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you. Theoretically, it could interfere with thyroid medication due to its effects on TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone); consult your doctor if you have a thyroid condition or take thyroid medication.

Traditionally used to combat stress, fatigue, and nervous exhaustion. Valued for enhancing energy, improving concentration, supporting restful sleep, and promoting overall rejuvenation (“Rasayana” in Ayurveda). Often described as giving the “strength and stamina of a horse.”

Ashwagandha contains active compounds called withanolidesA group of steroidal lactones found in Ashwagandha, believed to be responsible for its adaptogenic and stress-reducing effects., which are thought to modulate the body’s stress pathways, including the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and cortisol levels. Numerous studies have shown its effectiveness in reducing perceived stress and anxiety, improving sleep quality, and enhancing resilience to stress. It also has neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties.

Powder (Churna): Traditionally, the root powder is mixed with warm milk (often with ghee and honey).
Capsules/Tablets: Standardized extracts are widely available.
Tincture: Liquid extract of the root.

Generally well-tolerated. Large doses may cause mild digestive upset. Avoid during pregnancy. Individuals with autoimmune conditions should use with caution and consult a healthcare provider, as it may stimulate the immune system. May interact with thyroid medications, sedatives, or immunosuppressants; consult your doctor if taking these.

Traditionally used to treat insomnia, nervousness, anxiety, and restlessness. It was believed to calm the mind and prepare the body for sleep without causing a “hangover” effect like some conventional sleep medications.

Valerian contains compounds like valerenic acid and valepotriates. It is thought to work by increasing the amount of GABAGamma-aminobutyric acid, a neurotransmitter that calms nervous activity, promoting relaxation and sleep. (gamma-aminobutyric acid) in the brain, similar to how some anti-anxiety drugs work. Clinical studies on Valerian for insomnia have yielded mixed but often positive results, particularly for improving sleep quality and reducing the time it takes to fall asleep, especially with consistent use over several weeks.

Tea: Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried root in hot water for 10-15 minutes. The aroma can be strong, so it’s sometimes combined with other herbs like chamomile or lemon balm.
Tincture: A common and effective way to take Valerian.
Capsules/Tablets: Containing dried root powder or standardized extracts.

Generally considered safe for short-term use. May cause mild side effects like headache, dizziness, or digestive upset in some individuals. It can cause drowsiness, so avoid driving or operating heavy machinery after taking it. Avoid use with alcohol or other sedatives. Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Long-term continuous use is generally not advised without professional guidance.

Traditionally used by Native Americans and later adopted by European herbalists to treat insomnia, anxiety, nervousness, and restlessness. It was also used for conditions with a nervous component, like nervous palpitations or muscle spasms.

Passionflower contains flavonoids and alkaloids, such as harmala alkaloidsA group of compounds found in Passionflower that may contribute to its sedative and anxiolytic effects, possibly by influencing MAO enzymes or GABA receptors. (in trace amounts in P. incarnata) and chrysin. It is believed to increase levels of GABA in the brain, leading to a calming effect. Clinical studies have indicated its potential benefits for generalized anxiety disorder (comparable to some benzodiazepines in one study, but with fewer side effects) and for improving sleep quality, especially when combined with other calming herbs like Valerian.

Tea: Steep 1 teaspoon of dried aerial parts (leaves, stems, flowers) in hot water for 10-15 minutes.
Tincture: A common form for both sleep and anxiety support.
Capsules/Tablets: Standardized extracts are available.

Generally safe when used appropriately. May cause drowsiness, dizziness, or confusion in some individuals, especially at higher doses. Avoid use during pregnancy (may stimulate uterine contractions) and breastfeeding. May interact with sedative medications, CNS depressants, and MAO inhibitors; consult a healthcare professional if taking these.