Herbs and their uses 2

Chamomile: In its dried, powdered form, this flower not only works as a gentle sleep aid, but it can also soothe upset stomachs, nausea and general inflammation. Chamomile is effective in herbal sleep medications or in its tea form with no known side effects.

Catnip: As a tea, catnip is calming and promotes better sleep. Along with treating sleeping problems, catnip (also known as catmint or catswort) is also a homeopathic for migraines, cramping and indigestion. While catnip increases menstrual bleeding in a non-dangerous way, it can be dangerous for pregnant women, as catnip has been known to have abortive effects.

Hops: Used for years by Native Americans, hops are an effective herbal sleep aid, anxiety treatment and mild antibiotic. Because hops belong to the same family as marijuana, they aren't recommended for those suffering from depression. Similarly, pregnant women should also avoid hops because an estrogen-related compound it contains can complicate pregnancy.

Jamaica dogwood: Once used as a fish tranquilizer in the Caribbean, Jamaica dogwood's relaxing properties make it a safe, effective sleep aid and painkiller. Commonly, Jamaica dogwood is consumed in tea form. Pregnant women or those suffering from heart problems should avoid this herb.

Jasmine: Like chamomile, jasmine (as a tea or medication additive) has calming effects that promote better sleep and treat headache pain. Because it is a milder herbal supplement, jasmine is especially effective for treating children's sleeping disorders.

Lavender: While lavender is an herb that can act as a sedative, some forms of lavender, namely Spanish lavender, can actually have stimulating effects, making it an effective treatment for depression. Generally, lavender is taken as a tea. Although it doesn't have any noted side effects, lavender is considered to be one of the less effective herbal treatments.

Passion flower: This calming herb is an especially helpful sleep aid for sleep disorders caused by chronic pain, muscle conditions and anxiety. Because the most common side effect of passion flower is drowsiness, don't take it unless you plan to sleep for while.

Peppermint: Commonly taken in tea form, peppermint is a relaxing herb that relieves insomnia and indigestion. While peppermint doesn't have any serious side effects, it can prevent your body from absorbing iron. Consequently, avoid peppermint teas if you are taking iron supplements for some other medical condition.

Sage: This soothing herb treats sleep disorders, depression and nervous conditions. It is effective whether it spices up a meal, is consumed as a tea or is an additive in other sleep aids. Sage has no known side effects.

Siberian ginseng: Also used an herbal treatment for depression and chronic fatigue syndrome, Siberian ginseng is most effective for sleep disorders related to these conditions. Those suffering from high blood pressure or nervous disorders should avoid taking Siberian ginseng.

St. John's wort: Along with being effective in depression and anxiety treatment, St. John's wort also works for treating sleep disorders, particularly insomnia. It can be an ingredient in other sleep aid medication or taken alone in a concentrated pill form. The side effects of St. John's wort include increased sensitivity to the sun, causing you to sunburn more easily. Similarly, avoid taking this herbal supplement if you already take MAO inhibitors (medications for depression and/or migraines).

Valerian: As the most popular herbal sleep supplement, valerian is also an effective treatment for nerve and muscle disorders. Like chamomile and catnip, valerian is generally consumed as a tea. Side effects, such as loss of muscle function and heart troubles, only arise when too much valerian is consumed.

There are many herbs that are very well known. Aloe vera is known for its healing properties when someone is burned. Companies have picked up on the fact that people are interested in healing herbs, and offer products with these herbs in them. Sunburn creams often contain aloe vera.

Garlic is a well-known herb that has a reputation for being one of the healing herbs. It is thought to help with high blood pressure, diabetes and is good for the digestive system

Another of the healing herbs is sage. This is a very well known healing herb that is used for many different illnesses. Sage can be used in an aromatic fashion to assist with breathing. Companies are now manufacturing products that can be plugged into an outlet and the aroma of sage is released for help with opening the sinus passages due to colds. Sage is one of the healing herbs because it also can be used in a tea form and this will help reduce inflammation within the body.

Parsley is another of the healing herbs. This one is known for its help in the digestive system as well as keeping bladder infections from occurring. Parsley can also be used to apply to insect bites to prevent infection.

Chamomile is an herb that offers a calming effect. This is one of the healing herbs that are often found in teas to help relax people. It is also thought to assist in digestion.

Raspberry leaves are another of the healing herbs that is often found in teas. This herb is another that helps with relaxation and digestion. It is also thought to help prevent miscarriage and to help with symptoms of PMS.

Healing herbs are known all over the world. Discovering which ones can be useful to you is a fun past time that could assist in your future health.