Here’s an A to Z guide to the medicinal herbs that relieve common ailments like indigestion, stress, anxiety, sunburn, headaches, coughs, colds, and more.
By Lauren Gelman, Reader's Digest
Basil
Basil is one of a few medicinal herbs that can help with flatulence, lack of appetite, cuts, and scrapes. Harvest the young leaves of this annual plant as needed.
Chamomile
Use the flower heads of this medicinal herb for infusions and salves to relieve indigestion and colic, anxiety and tension, and skin inflammations and irritations.
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Echinacea
If you suffer from a cold or the flu, try this medicinal herb to ease the severity of your symptoms. It also helps provide relief to your immune system.
Feverfew
Use the leaves and flowers of this medicinal herb for teas; chew leaves to ease headache pain (including migraines). It’s also been shown to provide relief for arthritis, and skin conditions.
Johnny-jump-up
With anti-inflammatory properties, this medicinal herb is good for eczema and skin blemishes as well as to help loosen phlegm.
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Lavender
Even smelling this medicinal herb has been shown to calm and relax. It also eases pain and when applied to cuts and bruises functions as an antiseptic.
Lemon Balm
A relative of mint, lemon balm is a versatile medicinal herb that helps relieve anxiety, insomnia, wounds, herpes, insect bites, flatulence, and an upset stomach. It also speeds the healing of cold sores.
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Marigold
Medicinal herbs that have multiple uses are more bang for your buck. Marigold is one herb that is not only good for sunburn, acne, and blemishes but also soothes ulcers and digestive problems.
Parsley
Don’t think of it as decorative on your plate; this medicinal herb is loaded with nutrients as well as healing powers to help with flatulence and bad breath.
Peppermint
If you have digestion or gas, sipping tea made of this medicinal herb might provide relief. It’s also been shown to help soothe headaches.
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Rosemary
Medicinal herbs like rosemary help memory and concentration, improves mood—and sweetens breath.
Sage
Sage’s genus name, Salvia, means “to heal,” reflecting its early use as a medicinal, not culinary, herb. It can help provide relief for mouth and throat inflammations.
Thyme
The active principle in thyme, thymol, is a strong antiseptic. If you suffer from coughs, congestion, indigestion, or gas, consider using this medicinal herb.
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St. John’s Wort
Talk to your doctor if you suffer from mild to moderate depression; she may suggest St. John’s Wort. The glossy leaves and yellow flowers are this medicinal herb’s active parts. Medicinal herbs aren’t the only natural ways to heal.
