Some are traditionally used to reduce stress, anxiety, swelling, nausea, and pain.
Others may help remedy ailments like toothaches, the flu, and the common cold.
Herbs typically contain volatile oils, which can be quite potent.
Verywell / Mira Norian
That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.
Traditional Uses
Ashwagandha has been used for thousands of years for its medicinal properties.
It has traditionally been mixed with honey, ghee, or water.
Mix 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of ashwagandha powder into your smoothies or hot beverages.
Most people do not immediately feel the effects of ashwagandha.
It can take weeks for the benefits of ashwagandha to be noticeable.
Considerations
Ashwagandha is generally safe for most adults.
Common side effects include drowsiness, gastrointestinal discomfort, and diarrhea.
Do not take ashwagandha if you are pregnant, as high doses may induce miscarriage.
Chamomile
Chamomileis a flower native to Western Europe, India, and Asia.
It now grows freely throughout the United States.
Chamomile is a popular herbal remedy in the United States, commonly used to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
Chamomile is likely safe when used as a tea.
And, it may be safe for short-term use orally.
However, not enough is known about the long-term safety of using chamomile for medicinal purposes.
In Europe, chamomile is used to aid inwound healingand reduce inflammation and swelling.
A 2021 study found compounds in chamomile flowers provided faster wound healing compared to placebo.
The study authors noted that the high concentration of phytochemicals in chamomile flowers is likely responsible for wound healing.
A 2016 review found that chamomile is a versatile herb.
It is commonly used for its antioxidant, antimicrobial, antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and antidiarrheal effects.
It is also beneficial for managing knee osteoarthritis,ulcerative colitis, premenstrual syndrome, and gastrointestinal disorders.
Chamomile tea has an apple-like fragrance and taste.
Chamomile is available as a tea and in capsule form in most health food stores.
If using capsules, look for pharmaceutical-grade products.
Other grades, such as therapeutic grades, may not be as high in quality.
Avoid using chamomile if you takeblood thinnersor the antirejection drug cyclosporine.
It can negatively interact with these medications.
Echinacea
Echinaceais a flowering plant in the daisy family.
The flowers large, magenta petals unfurl in early to late summer.
It is also widely used to promote wound healing.
Echinacea is rich in substances believed to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and have antiviral and antioxidant effects.
Some studies show a minor benefit of using echinacea to prevent upper respiratory infections.
However, more studies are needed to determine its efficacy in preventing or shortening the duration of a cold.
Echinacea is available in capsule, tincture, and tea (bagged and loose-leaf) forms.
Experts say echinacea should only be used on a short-term basis.
Long-term use (eight weeks or more) may affect the bodys immune system and liver.
Check with a healthcare provider before using echinacea.
It may interact with your medications, particularly medicines that affect your liver.
Garlic
Garlicis a perennial plant native to Central Asia that is grown for its flavorful bulbs.
It is now grown worldwide by many cultures.
Garlic is valued both for cooking purposes and its medicinal properties.
Humans have been using garlic for thousands of years.
The compounds found in garlic have antimicrobial, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Research showsgarlic can lower blood pressureand reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Garlic may be effective at preventing certain types of cancer.
Research shows that regular consumption of cooked or raw garlic may reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.
Garlic can be consumed both cooked and raw.
It can also be used in powder to season meats, vegetables, soups, and stews.
Garlic supplements are available in capsule, oil, and tincture form.
Ginger
Ginger(Zingiber officinale)has a leafy stem and yellow-green flowers.
Native to Asia, ginger belongs to the Zingiberaceae family.
It was used to remedy common ailments, such as nausea, pain, and vomiting.
Today, ginger has the distinction of being classified as an herb, food, and medicine.
Thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, ginger is also an effective pain reliever.
One study found that ginger helped reduce pain and increase mobility in individuals with osteoarthritis.
It has a strong and spicy smell and tastes somewhat sweet and peppery.
Ground ginger root is what you typically find on spice shelves in grocery stores.
It is commonly used for cooking and baking.
There arenumerous ways to consume ginger, including in tea.
If you consume fresh ginger, peel the skin with a vegetable peeler before use.
Gingko
Ginkgo biloba(widely known asginkgo) is one of the oldest surviving tree species.
Native to Asia, ginkgo is one of the top-selling herbal remedies in the United States.
Ginkgo leaves are used to create extracts, capsules, and tablets.
Ginkgo leaves can also be consumed as tea.
Its used typically to enhance cognition and also for symptoms of dementia.
The nut is used in traditional Chinese medicine for wheezing.
Ginkgo leaves have been used for thousands of years for medicinal benefits.
These include treating bronchitis, asthma, chronic fatigue, andtinnitus(ringing in the ears).
Gingko is available for purchase in capsule, tablet, liquid extract, and dried leaves/tea forms.
There is currently no recommended standardized dose of ginkgo.
Different doses and formulations have been used in various research studies.
It is generally better to start with a lower dose to determine which amount is right for you.
It may take up to six weeks to notice any health benefits of ginkgo.
When using a supplement, ensure that only extracts from ginkgo leaves are used to produce the product.
The seeds contain a toxin that can cause seizures.
Side effects include headache, upset stomach, dizziness, and allergic reactions.
Ginkgo may increase the risk of bleeding.
Ginseng
Ginsengis a well-known herb with several health benefits attributed to it.
Sometimes referred to as man-root because it is shaped like a person, there are many types of ginseng.
American ginseng(Panax quinquefolius) is an herbaceous perennial native to deciduous forests of the United States.
Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng) is native toChina, Korea, and eastern Siberia.
The botanical namePanaxis derived from the word panacea, which represents ginsengs versatile uses for medicinal purposes.
Ginseng has been used for thousands of years in traditional Chinese medicine.
It can be purchased in capsule, powder, and extract forms.
If you use ginseng supplements, follow the dosage directions on the label.
Ginseng is generally safe for consumption with no serious side effects.
Talk with your healthcare provider before supplementing with ginseng if you take any medications.
Do not take ginseng if you have a bleeding disorder or are taking blood thinners, such as warfarin.
Lavender is in the mint family and thrives in many places around the globe.
Lavender has been used by humans for centuries, for everything from perfumes to aromatherapy to medicinal purposes.
Lavender is a powerhouse herb that offers many medicinal and therapeutic uses.
Lavender is available in many forms, including dried herb, powder, and essential oil.
Lavender is widely used in perfumes, shampoos, and creams/lotions for its soothing scent.
Lavender essential oil may cause an allergic reaction or skin irritation in some people.
Always dilute the essential oil in a carrier oil before applying directly to the skin.
If you experience headache, nausea, or vomiting after use, stop using it immediately.
Do not consume lavender essential oil orally, as it may be toxic.
Oral consumption of lavender, such as in tea, may cause constipation, headaches, or increased appetite.
St. Johns Wort
St. John’s Wortis a plant with yellow flowers.
The flower and leaf are used to create herbal remedies and supplements as an alternative treatment for various ailments.
Today, St. John’s Wort is most popular as an herbal remedy fordepression.
Studies show it may have a positive effect on mild to moderate depression if used over 12 weeks.
It may be used topically to promote wound healing and reduce muscle pain.
Each product will come in different doses and supplement strengths may vary.
There is not enough data to provide a standard recommended dose of St. John’s Wort.
The appropriate dose of St. John’s Wort will depend on your age, sex, and medical history.
It’s best to work with a healthcare provider, pharmacist, and/or an alternative health practitioner.
They can personalize your dose to ensure effectiveness and safety.
Do not take St. John’s Wort if you are taking antidepressants, as a life-threateningincrease in serotoninmay result.
Turmeric
Native to South Asia,turmericis an herbaceous perennial plant belonging to the ginger family.
It has been used for its medicinal properties for over 4,000 years.
Turmericis one of the most widely studied herbs.
Ayurvedic Medicine
Ayurvedic herbsare a major component ofAyurveda, a traditional-medicine practice that originated in India.
Practitioners use herbs to keep the mind, body, and spirit in balance.
Turmeric is still a popular herbal remedy.
One study found that participants who took 100 milligrams a day of turmeric extract experienced reduced joint pain.
Turmeric is used around the world as a cooking ingredient.
Turmeric supplements are made from the dried rhizome (underground stem) and are often sold in capsule form.
Turmeric paste is made to apply topically to the skin for certain skin conditions.
The recommended dosage for turmeric varies, depending on its intended use.
Speak with a healthcare provider before taking a turmeric supplement.
It may have interactions with some prescription medications and other herbal remedies.
Turmeric can enhance the effect of blood thinners, increasing your risk of bleeding.
Summary
Humans have used plants for thousands of years to treat ailments, pain, and disease.
Healing herbs are available in several forms, including supplements, tinctures, teas, and essential oils.
Scientific evidence on popular herbal remedies varies widely.
For some, there is a lot of information, while there may be just a little for others.
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