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A-Z Medicinal herbs

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Brewer’s Yeast
Brewer’s Yeast is exactly what it says. It's yeast that is used in the brewing process. Being a rich source of B-vitamins, amino acids and minerals, it also contains nucleic acid which helps boost the immune system.
When taken internally, brewer’s yeast promotes the immune system as said above as well as helping to relieve stress and anxiety. When used externally, it can be very effective at detoxifying skin, helping heal burns and treating skin problems
Warning: The side of effects of brewers yeast can be can be gas and headaches 

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Buchu herb 
An aromatic, diuretic, urinary antiseptic, diaphoretic and stimulant. Buchu is a specific for treating infections in the Genito-urinary system – cystitis, urethritis, prostatitis. Where there is burning urination, it can be especially helpful. Use 1-2 tsp per mug of hot water. Infuse for 10 minutes and drink 3 times a day. There are a few Warning: Do not use on an empty stomach as it can be a little irritating, do not use in kidney disease or during pregnancy.

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Catnip 
has antispasmodic, astringent, carminative, diaphoretic and sedative properties. Famous for the ‘high’ it can induce in many of our feline friends, catnip is altogether more restful for us. A useful digestive remedy for dyspepsia, colic and flatulence. Catnip is also a useful remedy for diarrhoea in children. As a powerful diaphoretic it can be used in feverish conditions. Use 2 teaspoons per mug and infuse for 10-15 minutes. Take 3 times a day. 
Warning: if taken in large doses catnip can cause headache, vomiting and have the feeling of being ill

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Cinnamon 
 This common flavoring agent has a long history of medicinal use treating everything from digestive distress to respiratory problems. There are over 200 varieties of cinnamon, with Ceylon considered to be the best and ‘true’ cinnamon. Some varieties are known as cassia. We know that cinnamon is a sedative for smooth muscle and carminative making it a useful digestive aid when cramps and spasms are present. It has anti microbial effects making it a popular remedy in tea from to treat coughs and colds.  Cinnamon is most commonly used in supplement to support blood sugar regulation and heart health.
Warning: taking cinnamon in high dosages can cause heartburn, indigestion and overtime could cause blood clotting and liver damage if large doses are taken.

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Comfrey
Comfrey, also known as knitbone, is a shrub that has been used across the world for thousands of years.
Comfrey creams and oils are used to help treat bruises, inflammation, muscle sprains, broken bones and burns.
The roots of leaves of the comfrey plant contain chemical substances called allantoin and rosmarinic acid. Allantoin promotes the growth of new skin cells, while rosmarinic acid helps relieve pain and inflammation.
When used as a tea or tincture, comfrey helps with diarrhoea, intestinal infections and other stomach ailments.
Warning: Comfrey contains some compounds that can potentially harm your liver. Avoid using comfrey in large amounts or for a prolonged period of time, it is best when used for its short term healing effects.

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Cloves 
Most famous as a reliever of toothache, cloves are a fantastic anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory. They have been used to treat all kind of infections and inflammations in the digestive tract from colic to parasites. Cloves contain high amount of eugenol, a compound studied for possible protective effects against environmental pollution and joint inflammation.
As an essential oil Cloves have analgesic, anti-fungal, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, hormonal, relaxant and nerve tonic properties. The buds of this evergreen tree are distilled to produce a spicy oil. Aromatherapy uses include treating athlete's foot, toothache, rheumatism, dyspepsia and colds.
Warning:
some common side effects of cloves can be sore or swollen gums and mouth, mild skin irritation.

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Corn Silk
Is a urinary demulcent and soothing diuretic. These fine threads are the stigmas of the female plants - soft fibres you may have noticed when peeling a corn on the cob. Corn Silk can be found in formulas for treating all kinds of urinary discomfort. Soothing irritation in cases of cystitis, urethritis and prostatitis.
 Corn Silk combines well with herbs such as couchgrass, bearberry and yarrow. To use infuse 2 teaspoons in a mug of hot water for 10-15 minutes.
Warning: Cornsilk tends to be safe in most cases but if taken in large dosses it can cause low potassium levels it can also cause skin rashes, itching and allergies 

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Chamomile
One of the more commonly known Medicinal herbs, Chamomile is known for its therapeutic properties. Helps sooth and relaxes both body and mind, so is effective for anxiety, depression and insomnia. It can also help relieve headaches and tension.
Chamomile can also be used externally in lotions or creams or even applied directly in teabags to help against itchy skin conditions, sore or inflamed skin.
It's  also widely used to help restless children who are suffering with toothache, colic or fevers. Can also help against fevers and aid digestion in adults as its soothing properties help calm the stomach and help stop heartburn and wind.
Warning: Although it is a commonly used medicinal herb, it is not for everyone and unfortunately it has been known to cause allergic reactions in some people. The reaction should stop when the herb is no longer being used but seek medical advice if the symptoms do not disappear.


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cayenne
Cayenne pepper taken internally assists digestion by stimulating saliva and stomach secretions. It's an analgesic which increases circulation. Cayenne acts as a decongestant which is really helpful for those suffering from colds, fever, toothache and digestive issues such as diarrhoea or constipation. If used externally, applied with cream, Cayenne may be used to alleviate shingles and can help arthritic pain or muscle soreness when applied to the affected area. Other uses include treatments for unbroken chilblains, muscle cramps and relieving tension.
Warning: Do not give to children under 2 and take great care to avoid getting it in any cuts, grazes or eyes as it can burn, if you do then rinse thoroughly with water.

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Cramp Bark
Cramp Bark is typically found in either tea or tincture form. It generally helps as a relaxant against any nervous complaints such as anxiety. It is also an effective antispasmodic and can be used for any sort of cramping such as menstrual cramps, muscle spasms, shoulder and neck tension.
It has benefits with aiding against heart disease and rheumatism also.
Warning: when used in large doses, Cramp Bark can cause low blood pressure.

 

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Centaury
is a aromatic, bitter, gastric stimulant and nervine. Centaury is a key remedy when for stimulating the digestion. The bitterness triggers the secretion of digestive juices, aiding the stomach to break down foods.
It may seem strange but Centaury can also be a wonderful remedy for acid reflux. Often, we may not be producing too much acid but may have a weakness in the oesophageal sphincter, which acts as a seal at the top of the stomach, protecting tissues higher up from damage by the powerful acids.
Sometimes our digestive systems have also taken such a battering they seem to be completely out of rhythm for when to respond to food. Centaury is a wonderful remedy for this. Taken before foods it helps prime the stomach and tones up the tissues, preventing reflux and improving digestion. Naturally it is important to alter the diet and lifestyle factors too  Use 1 teaspoon per mug of boiling water, infuse for 5-10 minutes and drink 20-30 minutes before meals. It is very bitter to take but don’t try to disguise the taste as it is the bitterness that works the magic! If you can’t stand drinking a mug, try taking a tincture instead. Combines well with meadowsweet for dyspeptic conditions.
 
Warning: Centaury appears to be safe to take but should be taken with caution if you are pregnant or breast-feeding 

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Caraway 
Caraway is used to aid the digestive process through both internal and external use. It soothes indigestion, gas, colic and flatulence. It can also relax uterine tissue and help alleviate menstrual cramping. Caraway is typically used with Dill, Fennel, Star Anise, Basil and Cardamom.
Warning: caraway oil can cause nausea and heartburn when used with peppermint oil

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Dandelion
Dandelion leaf is a weed that can be found at any time of the year, the leaves can be themselves can be cooked and eaten.
Dandelion has a few medicinal benefits such as reliving water retention, edema and any time of swelling. 
Dandelion root tends to be more effective then dandelion leaf as stronger. It can work as a good liver tonic and promotes a good digestion.
warning: The side effects of allergic reactions, stomach discomfort and diarrhoea

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Celery seed
One of the more uncommon medicinal herbs, celery seed has many uses, treating problems like the common cold, sinus congestion, digestive problems, high blood pressure and irregular periods.
Celery seed tea may help lessen insomnia when taken before bed.
 It also works as a diuretic helping against water retention and detoxing the kidneys.
Celery seeds can be used alongside Basil and black pepper.
Warning: Taking celery seed can cause stomach upset or diarrhoea.
As it is a strong diuretic, pregnant women should consult a doctor before use.
Do not give celery seed to young children.

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Echinacea
Echinacea is extremely effective at ridding the body of microbial infections, being useful against by both viruses and bacteria. It works by stimulating the immune system and working as an antiseptic.
Useful for those who struggle with a weakened immune system and those who are susceptible to minor infections, Echinacea has been used widely and is regarded as the most common herbal remedy used for cold/flu relief and prevention.
It uses go further than just defending the body and boosting the immune system, Echinacea also helps for boils, acne and some types of ulcers.
Gargling Echinacea is particularly useful for those suffering with oral problems such as sore throat, mouth ulcers and tonsillitis.
warning: some side effects of echinacea are nausea. sickness, unusual after taste, headache etc.  

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Elderflower
Elderflowers are found in hedgerows all around the British countryside. The small tree flowers for only 3 weeks in the summer. It is mostly used to make cordials and fizzy drink, however, elderflower has medicinal qualities which help, especially in the colder weather.
Used as an ointment, elderflower is a remedy for chilblains and chapped hands.
Elderflower is also found as a tea and tincture. It contains vitamin C which is good for boosting energy levels and along with the antioxidant content it will boost the immune system. This makes it effective for sinusitis, colds, Hay fever and flu.
Warning: Avoid using the leaves or roots of the elder plant as it can be toxic
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Eyebright
possesses ant catarrhal, astringent and anti-inflammatory effects. Eyebright is indeed a classic remedy for the eyes. Conjunctivitis, irritation, blepharitis, weeping, stinging, sensitivity to light and soreness may all benefit from the use of eyebright – internally and externally. Eyebright is also a prime remedy for conditions of the mucus membranes and as an ant catarrhal can benefit sinusitis, nasal congestion and hay fever. Brew 1 teaspoon in a mug of water, steep for 10-15 minutes. Take up to 3 times a day. This infusion can also be cooled and used topically as a compress. The simplest way to do this is to soak an organic cotton ball or cloth in the tea and lay across the eyes for 15 minutes.  It combines well with elderflower for catarrh and chamomile for the eye compress.
Warning:
some side effects can include headaches, sweating, sneezing and insomnia 

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Feverfew
has anti-inflammatory, anthelmintic, antirheumatic, digestive bitter, febrifuge, uterine stimulant and vasodilatory properties. Feverfew is a helpful remedy for the prevention of migraine headaches. This may be due to its vasodilatory and anti-inflammatory effects but some research also suggests it can reduce the abnormal release of serotonin and may be useful in the treatment of depression. Feverfew has long been used to treat painful, inflamed arthritis states. As the name suggests it was once used to bring down fevers, although you rarely see it used in this way these days. Feverfew may also benefit dizziness, tinnitus, Meniere’s disease and nausea. As a uterine stimulant it is a useful women’s remedy for sluggish menstrual flow and period pains. Use 1 teaspoon per mug, steep in hot water for 10-15 minutes and drink up to three times a day. 
warning: Fresh feverfew can cause mouth ulcers in sensitive individuals. Contraindicated in pregnancy.

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Garlic
Garlic is one of the oldest known medicinal plants, dating back all the way to 3000BC.
Garlic has been used to treat many different ailments, some including colds, skin problems, arthritis, cysts and fluid retention.
Garlic also assists the immune system in helping fight off infections.
Working alongside onion; garlic helps rid lead and various other heavy metals from the body.
Garlic can be used alongside ginger, cumin, coriander, eucalyptus and black pepper.
Warning: Garlic in breastfeeding mothers can cause colic in babies and Garlic can also cause allergic reactions in some people.

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Fennel
Fennel seeds have an aniseed type taste and help digestive issues. The benefits of having fennel tea or even chewing on fennel seeds are known to help colic, wind and irritable bowel; this makes it useful when given to babies to relieve the symptoms of colic.
Fennel is also taken to help milk flow in breastfeeding mums.
Warning: can cause blood in the urine if taken at high levels, always get this checked by a doctor.

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Horsetail
The healing properties of horsetail mostly revolve around it having high zinc and silica content.
Working to strengthen the bladder and acting as a diuretic, horsetail is effective for an irritable bladder, blood in the urine, and bed wetting problems.
Being good as a styptic, horsetail is useful when used to speed healing after surgery and also when used as a compress for weepy skin conditions and infections.
Due to its silica content it also makes horsetail good at strengthening hair and nails.
Warning: Large doses should be avoided in pregnancy.
Horsetail is typically used alongside cramp bark and St John’s wort.


Lovage
The roots, seeds and aerial plants of this relative of celery and angelica have all been used either medicinally or for culinary purposes over the years, although it seems to have fallen out of common usage these days. Lovage has antispasmodic, aromatic, carminative, diuretic, emmenagogue, expectorant and stimulant properties. The roots are most commonly used today. As a alternative (blood cleanser) it is used to support skin and joint health. In menstrual cramping and irregularity.  It is often recommended for urinary gravel, gout, migraine, rheumatism and jaundice. The carminative and aromatic properties make it a useful digestive tonic. Add 1 teaspoon of root to a mug of water, bring to the boil, simmer for 10 minutes. Take 3 times a day.  Try combining with the other ‘blood cleansing’ roots such as dandelion and burdock for an old school tonic.
warning:  It's
best avoided during pregnancy

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Marigold
Marigold is a commonly known flower that grows well in most gardens but it also has its medicinal properties too. It has strong healing properties and with it being anti fungal and a natural antiseptic makes marigold flowers an ideal first aid remedy.
When used as a tea or tincture, marigold flowers help against colic, Stomach ulcers and can also be gargled to help when tonsillitis.
Marigold is also used in a wide range of creams and lotions as it has many uses if applied externally. It can help against inflammation, ulcers, varicose veins, chilblains, eczema and even cuts or grazes.
Marigold flowers can also be used in baths to help against thrush and fungal infections.
Warning: Not to be mistaken for French or African marigold as they must not be taken internally.

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Hibiscus 
This gorgeous ruby flower has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, hypertensive and mild laxative properties. There has been a resurgence of interest in this herb recently as it has been used in studies to help reduce blood pressure. A few cups of tea a day can work wonders for those looking to manage their hypertension. Hibiscus may also help lower cholesterol, a double whammy for promoting heart health. Hibiscus has also been used to treat coughs, colds and sore throats. It is a sour tasting herb and certainly packs a punch in herbal bug busting brews! Hibiscus can also lower blood sugar and improve weight loss making it a useful remedy for those with prediabetes. To make a tea, steep 1 teaspoon in a mug of boiling water for 5-10 minutes and drink 3 times a day.
Warning: Contraindicated in pregnancy.

Lemon Balm
  The fresh or dried aerial parts of this plant make a delightfully scented medicine. Lemon Balm possesses antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-microbial, antispasmodic, carminative, diaphoretic, hypotensive, relaxant and sedative properties. Lemon Balm is an excellent remedy to soothe tension, relieve stress and quell digestive troubles. As nervous system and gut troubles often go hand-in-hand many people can benefit from the calming powers of lemon balm. Flatulence, dyspepsia, gastric spasms, anxiety, depression, insomnia, sadness and grief may all benefit. Lemon Balm also has a gentle vasodilatory effect, helping to lower blood pressure. Topically, extracts can put to use its anti-viral effect by treating herpes simplex – the cause of cold sores. Combine with hibiscus for high blood pressure; catnip or skullcap for nervous tension and digestive troubles; valerian for sleep. To make a tea infuse 2-3 teaspoons dried (4-6 fresh leaves) for 10-15 minutes in a covered vessel. 
Warning: the side effects of lemon balm are generally mild and could include nausea, vomiting. when applied to the skin some side effects could be skin irritation and cold sores. 

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Liquorice Root
Liquorice root is a sweet tasting root which is used a lot in confectionery and medicine.
The liquorice root has been used for thousands of years, dating back to the ancient Greeks. It has always been known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, being particularly effective for dry, irritable coughs and bronchitis.
Liquorice is also used for alleviating stomach issues such as heartburn, ulcers and colitis. When used in creams, liquorice is used to help skin conditions like psoriasis.
Warning: To some people, Liquorice can cause water retention and in large doses can produce a laxative effect. Liquorice should also be avoided if you have high blood pressure or are taking blood pressure medications as it has been known to raise blood pressure in some people.

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Marshmallow
Both marshmallow leaves and root can be used as both have a lot of medicinal properties.
Taking internally via a tincture or tea can help alleviate heartburn and has benefits against ulcers, hiatus hernia, irritable bowel and stomach acid. It also soothes dry coughs.
When applied topically it is effective at reducing the itchiness or redness following insect bites and stings.
warning: when applied topically it can cause skin irritation. If you have low blood sugar levels due to diabetes its important you check your blood sugar levels and speak to your GP before taking this.

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​Motherwort
Motherwort helps relax the womb and helps alleviate menstrual cramps when taken regularly.
It also helps irregular heartbeats and palpitations from anxiety as well as tachycardia from an overactive thyroid.
Motherwort can also be used with Vervain to help anxiety following stress, and also sage for menopause related hot flushes.
Warning: Do not use in pregnancy

Meadowsweet
Meadowsweet is mainly used for its natural antacid and calming effects.
It therefore is good at alleviating heartburn, indigestion, wind and stomach ulcers. Using meadowsweet alongside a few other herbs makes it even more effective. It can also be given to children to help alleviate upset stomachs and fevers.
It also has anti-inflammatory purposes which make it helpful for people that suffer with arthritis and rheumatism.
Warning: Meadowsweet in large doses or strong teas can cause nausea.
Meadowsweet is typically used alongside Comfrey, marshmallow, chamomile and peppermint.

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 Mullein
The dried aerial parts of this plant possess demulcent, mild diuretic, expectorant, mild sedative and vulnerary properties. Much like Marshmallow, Mullein is wonderfully soothing to the respiratory system. It can help tone, calm inflammation and stimulate fluid production, promoting expectoration. Considered a specific for dry, hoarse conditions and bronchitis with a hard, sore cough. Extracts of Mullein infused in olive oil may comfort any inflamed surface and used to be particularly popular when used as ear drops for infection and irritation. 1-2 teaspoons of the dried herb per mug of hot water. Infuse for 10-15 minutes and drink 3 times a day.
​warning:
Can cause skin irritation for some

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Parsley
A powerhouse of nutrients including anti-oxidants, folic acid and iron. Traditionally used to treat water retention & aid menstruation.
​warning: parsley can cause an allergic skin reaction in some people 

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​​Peppermint
One of the most popular herbal teas, peppermint can be grown in back gardens and pots almost anywhere. It can be added to any herbal tea to help the flavor but has its own medicinal properties too.
Peppermint is well known for its soothing effect on the digestive system. It can be used to help heartburn, wind, nausea, vomiting and menstrual cramps.
Peppermint used in creams has a calming effect on itchy skin problems.
Using peppermint alongside elderflower can help colds and sinus congestion.
Warning: Avoid large amounts during pregnancy. Not suitable for young children.

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Rosemary
Used regularly in cooking, rosemary has a fragrant smell and is used often in aromatherapy as well as taken internally for its medicinal properties.
Rosemary has an uplifting quality that helps depression and feelings of sluggishness while also easing tension and stress-related headaches.
When used in oils for massages, rosemary helps muscle aches and pains as well as helping circulation. 
It can also be used as a tea to aid digestive upsets like wind, gallstones and inflammation.
Warning: Avoid large doses in pregnancy, it can sometimes make headaches worse if the headache feels ‘hot’. Though note that rosemary used in food is a safe amount.

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Sage
Sage is a common garden herb, used frequently in cooking. It has strong medicinal properties which is most effective when drank as a tea or taken in tablets, as the amount used in food won’t be enough to be truly effective.
Sage has been long used in the menopause to stop and prevent hot flushes and excessive sweating, although not just good for those going through the menopause as its super effective for men too!
Sage also has a calming effect which helps reduce anxiety and confusion, particularly in elderly people.
It is helpful for treating sore throats, inflamed gums, tonsillitis and digestive disturbances like wind, indigestion and loss of appetite.
Warning: Not suitable for children and avoid if allergic to aspirin
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Nettles
The dried aerial parts of this herb have anti-allergy, astringent, diuretic, haemostatic and nutritive tonic abilities. Rich in minerals, iron and vitamin c they make a useful tonic in times of debility and may be of particular help to those struggling with anaemia. Supportive of kidney and urinary function, nettles help clear uric acid from the body – helping treat gout. As a ‘blood cleanser’, chronic skin conditions such as eczema can benefit. Infusions are popular as hair rinses to strengthen the scalp and treat dandruff. Nettles can stimulate milk flow in nursing mothers. I often recommend hay fever sufferers drink plenty of nettle tea throughout their allergy season. As an astringent and haemostatic, Nettle can be helpful where there is excess bleeding such as internal haemorrhage, or as a snuff for nose bleeds (make sure you seek medical help in these kinds of situations!).
Use 1-3 teaspoons to a mug of hot water, infuse for 10-15 minutes and drink 3 times a day. For a general cleanse Nettle may combine well with Burdock and, for urinary soothing, Cornsilk.
Warning: Nettle can sometimes cause mild stomach ache and should never be applied to an open wound.

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Passiflora
The dried aerial parts of this beautiful plant, also known as Passionflower, have anodyne, anxiolytic, antispasmodic, diaphoretic, hypnotic, hypertensive, peripheral vasodilating and sedative properties. As a prime remedy for the nervous system, Passiflora is useful for nervous tension, anxiety and panic attacks. Disorders involving spasms such as asthma, seizures and Parkinson’s have been treated with this herb. Passiflora can aid the transition into restful sleep, without the ‘narcotic’ hangover effect the following day. It can also be effective to treat nerve pain such as from shingles and neuralgia. Consider Passiflora in any state of nervous tension and exhaustion. Combines well with Valerian and/or hops for sleep; motherwort for neuralgia; skullcap or lemon balm for the nerves.
​Use 1 teaspoon of dried herb per mug of hot water. Steep for 15 minutes. Take one mug in the evening to promote sleep or drink a couple of mugs throughout the day for the nerve disorders.

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Rosehip 
the fruit (hips) of the Dog Rose are nutrient as well as mildly diuretic, laxative and astringent. Rosehips are also an excellent source of bio available vitamin C and bioflavonoids – compounds thought to work in a complimentary way with vitamin C, especially in immune, skin and joint conditions. You will often find rosehips added to ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) supplement preparations for this reason. Rosehips make a useful ‘spring tonic’, bringing a boost to the system and allaying general debility. Rosehips can be helpful in brews to aid immunity at the first sign of infection. As a gentle diuretic and laxative, rosehips may provide kidney, bladder and bowel support. Rosehips have also become popular as a treatment for osteoarthritis, easing pain and stiffness.  Use 2 ½ teaspoons to 1 cup of water, bring the boil and simmer for 10 minutes. Drink 3 times a day. Combines well with Hibiscus for urinary tract infections and colds.
warning: rosehip has a few mild side effects like fatigue. diarrhea, headaches and stomach pains.
 

Slippery Elm
If you’ve ever mixed this herb with water you’ve seen the mucilage rich jelly produced. A wonderful soothing, nourishing remedy for the digestive tract. Popular for all irritated and inflamed conditions from heartburn to IBS. Best taken blended with water or a plant based milk. 

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​Skullcap
Skullcap has been used for hundreds of years mostly in North America. It is usually found in herb form for tea and in a tincture form which tends to be more potent.
Skullcap is mostly used for its calming and antispasmodic effects on the body. It is helpful for insomnia as it eases people off to sleep without leaving them feeling groggy in the morning, which is what some other remedies and herbs tend to do.
The calming effect of skullcap can be shown in people with epilepsy and anxiety issues as it reduces agitation and anxiousness as well as supporting them alongside medication. This is why skullcap is used so much in herbal medicine as its interactions with drugs are quite low.
Skullcap’s antispasmodic benefits also help women who suffer a lot with PMS and menstrual cramps, easing cramping and also helps nerve pain.
It eases nerve pain in other areas and has been known to reach deeper points than other nerve tonics and herbs.
Warning: Always buy from a reputable firm as some dodgy skullcap can contain germander which is poisonous. Don’t take alongside sedatives

​Raspberry Leaf
Raspberry leaf has many positive effects but the most well-known benefit is aiding late pregnancy.
Often being referred to as the woman’s herb, raspberry leaves contain fragarine, a compound that helps tone and tighten muscles in the pelvic area, which may reduce the menstrual cramping caused by the spasms of these muscles. It has also been thought to help in the third trimester in preparation for labor by shortening the labor and preventing excessive bleeding after childbirth.
Other benefits of raspberry leaves are for its antioxidant content which helps the immune system and helps prevent oxidative stress. It can also be used in a mouthwash to ease sore throats and weak gums.
Warning: Avoid In early pregnancy as it can increase chance of miscarriage.

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Spearmint
the aerial parts of this plant contain antibacterial, anti-emetic, antifungal, antiviral, antispasmodic, carminative, digestive, hypnotic and sedative properties. Spearmint shares many qualities with peppermint, although it is a little sweeter and milder. As an intestinal antispasmodic, spearmint is useful for flatulence and colic. It can also relieve nausea and prevent vomiting. Spearmint is a common additive to things like mouthwash but it’s not there just for its refreshing flavour, it is also an antimicrobial. Spearmint may be useful as part of a treatment plan for women suffering from Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). This condition is associated with raised androgen hormones, leading to symptoms such as menstrual irregularity, excessive hair growth, cystic acne and weight gain. Spearmint has demonstrated antiandrogen activity and its regular use over time may bring some relief. As a hypnotic and sedative, spearmint can be useful in sleep blends. Infuse 1-2 teaspoons for 10-15 minutes and drink 3 times a day.
Warning: there are very few known side effects to spearmint some people can have an allergic reaction to spearmint when applied to the skin.
 

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