A practical guide to popular herbs and their uses in body care and health.

Treating medical conditions with herbs has gained great popularity among many people who are discontented with modern medicine and seek natural and healthy alternative medicine to cure various heath related conditions and problems. Included here are a few of the most
popular herbs and their uses.


Angelica Root
A stimulant for the digestive system. Thought to treat gas, and acid indigestion. Also used as a tonic to promote good health and lift the mood and spirit.

Barberry
Thought to stimulate the body. Is a powerful healing herb for the liver and spleen.

Bayberry
This is a shrub plant found around the southern and eastern parts of the United States. An infused tea made from bayberry is thought to be a good treatment for diarrhea.


Capsicum
Also referred to as red pepper and cayenne pepper. Capsicum is considered a very good source for Vitamin C. Many use a capsicum rub for their arthritis.

Carob
Has a flavor that is very similar to chocolate. Used as a chocolate substitute in cooking.

Chamomile
Use to treat many gastrointestinal problems, cramps, and to improve mood. Applied to skin to treat various skin problems. Chamomile rinse is used over light brown hair to add golden highlights.

Cinnamon
In ancient times it was used to preserve food. Studies show that cinnamon has a positive effect on blood sugar levels and might be useful in controlling diabetes.

Chicory
A popular ingredient added to café au lait in the southern states. The plant is found growing wild in North America. Used as a natural diuretic and laxative.


Cranberry
The plant is cultivated throughout the United States. Thought to be a natural way for women to treat (UTI) Urinary Tract Infections.

Dandelion
Dandelion tea is thought to promote healthy circulation throughout the body. Many drink a tea to cure or ease arthritis and cleanse the blood.

Garlic
Thought to cure high blood pressure and many stomach problems. Many take to help stimulate the immune system and prevent certain diseases.


Ginger
Used to heal muscular aches and pains. Increase circulation in the body. Helps to ease cold and flu symptoms.

Ginseng Powder
Thought to protect the body from stress and helps to control high blood pressure. Increases testosterone levels in men. Men receive great benefit from taking it daily but women should only take it occasionally for stress.

Hops
A digestive aid. A hops poultice is used to treat boils, bruises,
and pain.


Licorice Root
Helps to treat menopausal symptoms because of the phytoestrogen
levels in the licorice root. Pregnant women should not take this root. And those who are sensitive to estrogen products should also avoid licorice root.

Nettle
Use to treat many common skin problems.

Peppermint
Used to treat an upset stomach, combat nausea and to ease cold symptoms.

Raspberry
Good for women and is rich in iron. Helps control menstrual flow.

Red Clover
Purifies the blood.

Rose Hips
High in Vitamins A,B,C,E, and K.

White Sage
Thought to heal wounds, ease muscle and joint pain.