The Best Herbal Remedies Listed from A-Z Part 2

This list is in alphabetical order by problem. From Acne to Warts you will find solutions here.

Please Upvote if you find this information helpful. Thank you!

The information here is provided to you for information and education purposes only. The information contained on this post should not be construed as medical advice. Before beginning any exercise, diet, or treatment it is vital you contact your healthcare provider.

Gas or Flatulence

Gas or flatulence occurs in everyone. If your gas is severe it can become uncomfortable and painful. Certain foods are known to produce gas, and you can avoid these foods if gas is a problem for you. These foods are broccoli, potatoes, dairy products and beans. Swallowing too much air while eating can also produce gas. There are some herbal remedies that can help treat gas.

Peppermint - Peppermint contains menthol, which helps stimulate the intestines. It also helps relax the muscles in the digestive tract, promoting burping. You can eat peppermint candy or mints, which are helpful (Do you always notice the peppermint candies at restaurants?) Peppermint tea is also a great way to take peppermint. You can drink 1–2 cups of tea after a meal to aid digestion.

Chamomile - Chamomile helps aid digestion and can also help dissipate gas in the body. It is also used as an anti-inflammatory. Often used as a tea, it is helpful to drink a cup of chamomile tea after eating. Those with allergies to ragweed should avoid this herb.

Aniseed - The seeds from the anise plant have been shown to help eliminate gas buildup. Taken as a tea, steep the dried, crushed seeds in hot water for 10 minutes. Strain and drink warm.

Ginger - Ginger root is known to help relieve nausea and helps with simple indigestion such as gas. You can drink a cup of tea after a meal that may cause gas. It is also available in capsule form.

Hangovers

Most adults have had at least one experience with drinking too much alcohol and ending up with a hangover. It can cause a headache, fatigue, nausea and dizziness. To prevent a hangover, do not drink to excess. However, if you do imbibe too much you can help a hangover with herbal remedies.

Willow - There are pain-relieving ingredients in the bark of the willow, and you should take this remedy as a tea. To make the tea, steep willow bark in hot water for 10 minutes, strain and drink.

Dandelion - Dandelion is known to stimulate the liver, which may help in alcohol dissipation. It is also a source of anti-oxidants and can help with stomachaches.

Ginkgo - Gingko helps improve circulation and helps relieve dizziness. For these reasons it may be a good hangover remedy.

Honey and Fruit - The fructose in fruit and honey helps speed up the metabolism of alcohol and helps to decrease the effects of a hangover. If you just can’t think about eating a piece of fruit, have a cup of warm tea with honey.

Hay Fever and Allergies

Hay fever is an allergy to certain weeds and flowers that occurs most often in spring and summer. Allergies occur year-round. People can be allergic to many things, but the most common allergies are to pet dander and pollen. Herbal remedies are most effective for those with mild forms of allergies. If you are currently taking prescription medication for allergies consult your doctor before taking herbal remedies.

Stinging Nettle - Studies have found that this herb works as well as conventional medications for treating the symptoms of hay fever. Stinging nettle is available in capsule form.

Peppermint - The anti-inflammatory properties of peppermint help to calm mucous membranes. The scent of peppermint when inhaled helps you feel as though you can breathe easier. You may drink tea or you can steep the peppermint and breathe in the steam.

Licorice Root - The anti-allergy properties of licorice act similarly to cortisone drugs but without the side effects. For hay fever be sure to get whole licorice, not the type labeled DGL, which is used for ulcers.

Garlic - Garlic contains an anti-inflammatory substance called quercetin, which can help calm an allergic response in the body.

Headaches

Headaches occur in everyone from time to time. They are commonly a dull ache that happens in the temple or forehead and comes on during the day. Migraine headaches are a result of insufficient blood flow to the brain, and should be treated by a doctor to determine any underlying cause. Herbal remedies can be helpful in treating regular headaches, and be sure to drink water when you have a headache. Many low-grade headaches are actually caused by a mild form of dehydration.

Feverfew - Feverfew contains substances that inhibit the release of mood hormones in the brain. For best results, use fresh feverfew. When that isn’t available, take as a tea or in capsule form.

Bay - There have been some doctors who recommend taking feverfew with bay to prevent a migraine headache. You can often find a combination available in a health food store.

Ginger - Ginger has long been known to relieve and also to prevent headaches. It is an anti-inflammatory and also has substances that help reduce pain. Take in capsule form, according to directions.

Peppermint - Taken internally or used externally, peppermint can help relieve a headache. To take internally, drink peppermint tea. To use externally, mix several drops of peppermint oil with lotion or body oil and massage into the temples.

Heartburn

Heartburn is a pain that occurs in the chest after eating. It is caused by stomach acid that gets into the esophagus causing a painful burning sensation. Symptoms can range from mild to severe. There are many over the counter remedies that can help, but there are also some herbal cures to help the situation.

Licorice Root - This herb can help speed up the healing process in the digestive tract. It is also soothing to the mucous membranes. Look for the type called DGL, as this is better for digestive disorders. Take licorice in capsule form or as a mild tea, which can be taken after a meal.

Aloe Juice - Aloe juice has a calming effect on the digestive tract and may be helpful in the treatment of heartburn. Make your own aloe remedy by mixing powdered aloe with water.

Cabbage Juice - The active ingredient in cabbage can actually help heal ulcers by helping them repair themselves. Drink a cup of the juice after meals.

Calendula - Calendula is used for many types of minor cuts and abrasions and is safe to use. Drink as a tea. To make the tea, steep 2 teaspoons of the dried flowers in hot water for 10 minutes. Strain and drink warm.

Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are painful swollen and inflamed tissues near the rectum, and they may burn and itch. Herbal remedies can actually help strengthen the blood vessels and reduce inflammation associated with hemorrhoids.

Ginkgo - This helps strengthen the blood vessels and also has antiinflammatory properties. Taken internally, it can be used as a tea, tincture or in capsule form.

Horse Chestnut - This has long been used as an anti-inflammatory, as it helps to decrease swelling. It is also astringent, which helps lessen bleeding. You can use this herb topically in a cream or internally as a tea or in capsule form. To use externally you can use strong-brewed tea to soak the affected area.

Witch Hazel - Witch hazel is a common remedy that is available at the drug store. Apply topically to the affected area, and do not take internally.

Dandelion - Dandelion roots have laxative properties that help with constipation that often accompanies hemorrhoids. To make a tea, steep dried, chopped root for 10 minutes in hot water. Strain and drink warm.

High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is common in many adults. A number of factors can contribute to high blood pressure, including genetics, and can be aggravated by being overweight. If you are currently taking prescription medication for high blood pressure, do not take herbal cures or stop your current treatment until you discuss this with your doctor.

Hawthorn - The leaves, flowers and berries are used to make tonic that helps improve the cardiovascular system. It helps reduce blood pressure by relaxing the walls of the arteries. This herb takes weeks or months to show any affects so do not rely on this as your sole method of controlling your high blood pressure.

Reishi - This mushroom is known for its rejuvenating properties and has been used since ancient times in Japan and China. It can help reduce your cholesterol. The most common way to take this is in capsule form but it is also available as a powder that can be mixed into liquids.

Garlic - Garlic has been used to cure many ailments for thousands of years, and it is known to help lower blood pressure and cholesterol. You can eat raw or lightly cooked garlic every day. If you prefer, you can take garlic in capsule form, which is readily available.

Dandelion - Dandelion helps increase urine flow and lowers blood pressure. You can eat the leaves in a salad or drink tea. It is also available in capsule form.

High Cholesterol

High cholesterol is very common in adults, and can lead to heart disease, strokes and other serious health problems. You should have your cholesterol level checked by a doctor every year. The levels will indicate if you need to take action to lower your cholesterol. Herbal remedies can be very helpful in lowering cholesterol, but do not substitute herbal remedies for prescription medication. If you are currently under a doctor’s care for high cholesterol, check with him before making any changes.

Guggul - An ancient Indian medicine, guggul is known to help lower cholesterol and triglycerides while increasing the HDL, or good cholesterol. Take 25-milligrams three times per day, with meals. It will take up to several months to see any results from taking this supplement.

Artichoke - A substance in artichoke, cynarin, is known to help the body block absorption of cholesterol. It also assists the liver in breaking down toxins. Take up to 3,000-milligrams per day with meals.

Garlic - Long known for its medicinal powers, garlic is helpful in inhibiting the production of cholesterol in the body.

Indigestion

Indigestion is common and happens to everyone at one time or another. Occasional indigestion can be easily treated with herbal remedies. If your indigestion is frequent or severe it could signal an underlying problem and should be checked out by a doctor.

Chamomile - Well known as a soothing herb, chamomile tea can help dispel gas and relax tense stomach muscles. Taken as tea, drink 3 to 4 cups of hot tea per day. You can also use this as a tincture.

Peppermint - Mint aids in digestion because it acts as a muscle relaxant in the stomach and can help calm the whole digestive tract. To be most effective use the tincture or essential oil mixed into water and drink. If heartburn is your problem, peppermint may aggravate the esophagus.

Marshmallow - This plant is used to soothe the mucous membranes in the digestive tract. The root is the part of the plant that is typically used. Most often used in capsule form, take up to 6 500-milligram capsules per day.

Angelica - Angelica stimulates digestion, calms nerves and can help dispel gas and bloating. It is often included in preparations with other herbs, such as dandelion. This herb may cause sensitivity to the sun.

Insect Bites and Stings

Insect bites are usually harmless but can be annoying and painful. They can cause pain and inflammation to the spot of the bite. Herbal remedies can be helpful in dealing with both the pain and swelling of the insect bite. If you are allergic to insect stings, are stung multiple times or are stung on the neck you should seek medical attention.

Aloe - The soothing properties of aloe help hasten healing. It also has anti-bacterial properties. If you have a live plant simply cut a small piece of leaf and scoop out the gel and apply to the bite. Commercial aloe products are readily available at drug stores.

Witch Hazel - Witch hazel has astringent properties and helps shrink swollen tissue. Apply to the bite with a clean cotton swab. It is a good idea to have this on hand for emergencies.

Calendula - Calendula is an anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial herb that helps wounds heal. It can be found in many commercial preparations at your local health store. Apply directly to the sting as needed.

Comfrey - A substance called allantoin is found in comfrey, which has antiseptic properties and also promotes healing. You can use fresh, crushed comfrey leaves to apply directly to the bite. It is also available in many salves and lotions. Do not ingest.

Insomnia

Insomnia affects millions of people - there are times when you just can’t get to sleep. Instead of taking prescription medications that can be harmful or addictive, try an herbal cure.

Valerian - This herb is known to help you sleep and does not have any side effects, such as morning grogginess that is associated with prescription medications. It can help improve sleep quality as well. Take in capsule form according to package directions.

Lemon Balm - Most often available as a good tasting tea, this herb not only helps ease insomnia but also calms nerves and fights fevers. It is also good for headaches and helps calm the digestive tract.

Passionflower - This herb has been shown to calm nerves and decrease anxiety. If you suffer from sleeplessness due to an overactive mind, this will help calm it. Take as a tea before bedtime. Do not mix this herb with MAO antidepressants.

Kava-Kava - This herb helps calm and relax muscles and is known to aid the brain in promoting sleep. Take in capsule form according to the instructions. Do not take kava-kava if you are taking sedatives, and do not use while pregnant.

Chamomile - Chamomile is known for its relaxing properties, and is a gentle sleep aid. Most effective in tea form, drink a cup of warm chamomile tea before bed.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

IBS is a very common ailment that particularly affects women, but can also affect men. The symptoms are constipation and diarrhea with severe bloating and cramping. If your IBS happens infrequently, try these herbal remedies.

Peppermint - Peppermint is helpful in many digestive disorders because it has soothing properties in the digestive tract. It helps stop cramping and is an anti-inflammatory. Use peppermint oil in capsule form to be most effective in treating this problem.

Psyllium - These seeds help aid the intestinal tract whether the problem is constipation or diarrhea. Stir the dried seed husks into a large glass of water or juice and drink immediately. Drink one glass per day to keep IBS at bay.

Chamomile - Chamomile helps calm the stomach and intestinal tract. It helps to stop muscle spasms that sometimes occur with IBS. You can drink as a tea, up to 4 cups per day between meals. It is also commonly available in capsule form. Do not take if you have allergies to ragweed.

Menopause

All women go through menopause as they age. Some will experience symptoms such as mood swings, hot flashes and night sweats. Because the body is going though hormonal changes it can take years to readjust to the new levels. Some herbal remedies can treat symptoms that are less severe. If you are taking hormone replacement drugs consult with your physician before taking herbal remedies.

Black Cohosh - Useful as both a menopause and a pre-menstrual remedy, this herb helps by mimicking estrogen in the body. It is also helpful in stopping hot flashes and in minimizing depression. Take in capsule form, and do not exceed the recommended dosage on the bottle.

Dang Ghui - Used in ancient Chinese medicine, this herb helps with many symptoms of menopause. It works in much the same way as estrogen replacements work but in a milder way and without the side effects. Taken in capsule form, take up to 6 500-milligram capsules per day. Do not use if pregnant.

Red Raspberry - Red raspberry is known to strengthen the uterus, helps decrease heavy menstrual flow and relaxes muscles. Take as a tea, and drink one or two cups per day.

Licorice Root - Used in ancient Chinese medications for female reproductive problems, this herb helps control water retention and breast tenderness. It also decreases symptoms associated with the fluctuation of hormones such as what occurs in menopause.

Menstrual Problems

Many women feel various symptoms that are associated with their menstrual cycle. These include moodiness, fatigue, cramps and headaches. While over the-counter medications can help with some of the symptoms, you may want to try some herbal remedies that can help without side effects.

Vitex - This tree berry extract is good for many menstrual symptoms, including fluid retention, moodiness, food cravings, and acne. It helps by regulating the pituitary gland. Take in capsule form. Do not use during pregnancy, and do not use if you are taking oral contraceptives, as vitex may lessen their effectiveness.

Black Cohosh - Also used to help the symptoms associated with menopause, this powerful herb helps relieve cramps, and helps with pain as well. You must take this herb for a few weeks for it to be effective. Most often taken as a tincture, take 3 to 4 droppers twice a day.

Cramp Bark - This herb gets its name from its use as an antispasmodic. It is safe to use and will relax uterine cramping. It can be combined with valerian or kava-kava. Take as a tea or in capsule form. You can find it mixed with other herbs in mixtures designed to treat PMS.

Kava-Kava - A calming herb, kava-kava helps ease anxiety. It also has pain-relieving effects similar to aspirin. It is recommended to start taking this several days before your period and through your period.

Morning Sickness

Many pregnant women experience morning sickness during pregnancy. The exact cause is not known, however it is likely due to hormonal and metabolic changes that are occurring. Some herbs may offer help for morning sickness, but do not take any herbal remedy while pregnant until you discuss it first with your doctor.

Ginger - Ginger helps calm the stomach and can stop nausea and vomiting. It is also a cure for motion sickness, and it can also reduce gas and bloating. The gentlest dosage is to take as a tea.

Chamomile - Chamomile is soothing and gentle on the digestive system. It is best used as a tea to help calm and relieve nausea. You can sip the tea as needed throughout the day whenever you have symptoms of morning sickness.

Peppermint - Soothing to the digestive tract, this gentle herb is safe to use. It can improve symptoms of bloating and gas. Steep a tea by putting 2 teaspoons of dried peppermint leaves into hot water for 10 minutes. Strain and drink the tea warm.

Motion Sickness

Motion sickness is nausea brought on by motion, such as riding in a car or plane. It can affect anyone and can come on without warning. Some herbal cures may help alleviate the nausea and make the stomach feel better.

Ginger - This herb acts to help dispel gas and settle the stomach. Studies have found it to be more effective than Dramamine. It has also been found to reduce vomiting after surgery. It is most effective when taken several hours before your car ride. Often taken in capsule form, it can be taken as a tincture in water, so even children can take it. Candied ginger is also effective.

Peppermint - Peppermint has been found to prevent vomiting and quiets muscle spasms in the stomach. It is found in many common peppermint candies. The tincture can be mixed with water and taken after meals and before trips.

Fennel - Fennel seeds have long been known to aid with digestion and help calm the stomach. You can use this as a flavoring on foods or take as a tincture or tea.

Nausea

Everyone has a bout of nausea from time to time. It can be brought on by the flu, but often there is no real reason for feeling nauseous. If you are sick, make sure you frequently drink small amounts of liquids to stay hydrated. Some herbal cures may help alleviate the symptoms.

Ginger - Ginger is readily available in many forms and is safe to use. It is effective in reducing nausea and helps quiet the stomach. Extremely versatile, it can be taken as a tea, in crystallized form, dried, powdered or as a tincture. It is also available in capsule form.

Peppermint - Peppermint settles the stomach, and you have probably noticed that peppermint candies are often given at restaurants. If you have a headache or a cold, peppermint is also a good choice for these ailments. Keep peppermint lozenges in the car to help tame nausea while driving. It can also be taken as a tea or tincture.

Lemon Balm - Lemon balm helps the body to deal with and expel excess gas. It can also relieve spasms. The flavor is also pleasing. Make a tea by steeping dried herbs in hot water for 10 minutes, then strain and drink.

Chamomile - This herb is useful for all sorts of ailments and acts to calm nausea. Mild enough for children, this herb is a safe choice in treating many illnesses. Use as a tea or put drops of the tincture into water and drink.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis affects millions of people, mostly women. It is a gradual loss of bone density, making people more susceptible to broken and fractured bones. Calcium supplements are important to avoid getting Osteoporosis. Some herbal supplements are available to add to the mineral intake.

Stinging Nettle - This is a natural multi-vitamin that contains calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus and proteins. Capsules are the best method of taking this herb. Take up to six 500-milligram capsules daily.

Red Clover - This clover contains compounds that act as a mild form of estrogen, and can help with symptoms of menopause. Take up to five 500-milligram capsules daily. It can also be taken as a tea. Drink up to 3 cups of tea per day.

Horsetail - This traditional remedy helps the body to process calcium. It also provides a natural source of silica that helps strengthen hair, nails and bones. This is readily available in capsule form. Take up to six 500milligram capsules per day.

Pinkeye and Stys

Also known as conjunctivitis, pinkeye is a highly contagious inflammation of the eyelid membrane, and causes the white of the eye to appear pink. Pinkeye usually clears up within several days. Stys are small pimples or blocked hair follicles on the eyelid, and can be painful. They open and go away in several days. There are some herbal remedies that can be effective in the treatment of both eye conditions.

Eyebright - This herb is effective in helping soothe many eye problems. It has anti-bacterial properties, and should be used as eyewash or in a compress. Soak a clean cloth in the warm liquid and hold on closed eyes.

Green Tea - This helps aid in the reduction of inflammation and fights infections. Use as a compress. Steep the tea for 10 minutes in hot water, and soak a clean towel with the liquid and place on closed eyes. Hold on the eyes for at least 10 minutes.

Herbal Eyewash - Make eyewash using a mixture of herbs. Steep the herbs in piping hot water for ten minutes. Strain the herbs, leaving the warm liquid. Soak a clean washcloth in the liquid, ring out the excess and place on your closed eyes for 10 minutes.

Poison Ivy and Poison Oak

Allergic reactions to poison ivy and poison oak range from mild to severe. Reactions start with red and itching skin followed by blisters and oozing. If exposed, rinse the affected area as soon as possible with water. For severe reactions, you should seek medical attention by a doctor. Mild reactions, however, are often easily helped with herbal remedies.

Jewelweed - This plant is known to help skin rashes caused by poison ivy, oak and sumac. Use the fresh, crushed leaves in a compress and hold on the effected skin. You can also apply a tea rinse to the skin. Mix a strong tea and apply to the skin with a clean cloth.

Aloe - The juice from the aloe plant helps heal wounds and acts as an anti-inflammatory. You can use it right off the plant by breaking off a small piece and applying the gel directly to the skin. Aloe lotion is available commercially. Look for gel that is 100% aloe.

Witch Hazel - This herb is cooling, soothing and drying, three things that will help heal rashes quickly. Readily available at drug stores, apply topically to the skin as often as needed. You can soak a cloth with witch hazel and lay over the effected skin area.

Cucumber - Cucumber acts as a coolant and helps calm inflamed skin. You can use a fresh cucumber applied directly to the skin. You may also mash the cucumber and use by placing small amounts on the skin.

Sinus Infections

Sinus infections are infections of the sinus cavities, located in the cheeks, ears and forehead. Often caused by viruses, the infections can be particularly hard to get rid of. A bad cold or hay fever can turn into a sinus infection, and they often happen to people who smoke. They can sometimes effectively be treated with herbal remedies.

Echinacea - This herb helps boost the immune system and is known to help fight off infections, particularly sinus infections. Take as soon as you feel an infection coming on and continue to take every two hours. You need to take it frequently at the onset of the illness in order to get the best results. You can take up to nine 400-milligram capsules per day.

Astragalus - Taken over a long period of time, astragalus helps boost the immune system slowly. It builds up the immune system of people who get sinus infections often, and is most commonly taken in capsule form.

Oregon Graperoot - This herb is an antimicrobial, as well as astringent and an anti-inflammatory. It can be used to treat a number of infections, including sinus infections. Commonly found in tincture form, take 15 drops at a time up to three times per day.

Garlic - Garlic has properties that help fight bacteria. Overcooking deactivates the ingredient that fights bacteria, so it is best used raw. Garlic capsules are widely available.

Smoking

Smoking is an addiction, which is difficult to stop once started. Many people want to quit smoking but have a hard time. People who quit smoking suffer through many withdrawal symptoms including nervousness, irritability and insomnia. Some herbal cures are available to help make quitting easier.

Mullein - This herb helps soothe irritated lungs and mucous membranes in the respiratory tract. Take 2 to 3 cups of tea per day or ½ to 1 teaspoon of tincture three times per day.

Coltsfoot - This herb helps soothe inflamed lung tissue and also helps to loosen secretions, making it easier to cough up. Taken as a tea, drink up to 3 cups per day. Take coltsfoot for no more than four weeks per year.

Lobelia - This herb helps ease coughs and relaxes bronchial muscles. It also may help reduce nicotine cravings. Take as a mild tea, up to 3 cups daily. Lobelia has been known to cause nausea in some people so discontinue use if this happens.

Sore Throat

Many things can cause a sore throat, from postnasal drip, dry air, breathing through your mouth to a cold or virus. Antibiotics cannot treat viral infections, and left to run its course will last several days. Some herbs can soothe the symptoms of a sore throat and make it feel better.

Echinacea - Echinacea helps boost the immune system and makes it function better, and has been known to kill some viruses of the respiratory system. It can be taken along with antibiotics to treat strep throat, as it will help speed recovery. Take in capsule form. Increase the dosage at the onset of illness and decrease after several days. Do not take if you have an allergy to ragweed.

Licorice - The root of this herb helps reduce inflammation and stimulates the immune system, helping to fight infections. There are two types of licorice products. Be sure to find the licorice capsules that are for boosting the immune system and not the type used in treating ulcers.

Eucalyptus - This is a fragrant herb that soothes a sore throat. It also has antiseptic properties and can help shrink swollen tissues. It is found readily available in throat lozenges, which are a convenient way to take it. You can also drink eucalyptus tea.

Lemon Balm - Lemon balm is helpful in fighting off viruses and bacteria. Use as a tea - steep the dried leaves for 10 minutes in hot water. Strain and drink the tea warm. The tea can also be helpful when used as a gargle.

Sprains and Strained Muscles

Sprained or strained muscles may occur from overuse or exercise. Often, dehydration contributes to the sprain. Sometimes a long soak in a tub of hot water will do wonders to help replenish overused muscles. For regular sprains, apply cold packs for the first twenty-four hours after the injury. Also, keeping the injury elevated helps improve circulation and lessen the swelling. Some herbal remedies are also helpful for minor sprains and strains.

Turmeric - Turmeric has been found to have strong anti-inflammatory properties and is helpful in treating many sports injuries, including sprains. It can be used topically but is most often taken internally. Take up to 1800 milligrams per day. Do not take more, because in larger quantities it can hurt the stomach.

Kava-Kava - This herb is used to help relieve pain and as a muscle relaxant. Taken internally, you can take up to eight 500-milligram capsules per day. Do not combine kava-kava with alcohol or sedatives.

Peppermint - The cooling sensation of the peppermint helps take away from the sensation of pain, helping to feel better. Use topically for a sprain. It is available as an ingredient in many commercial creams found at the health food store. You can also use peppermint oil added to massage oil to massage into the skin.

Comfrey - Comfrey helps relieve pain, reduce swelling and inflammation. It is found in many over the counter salves and creams. It is effective without the side effects of many prescription medications. Apply as directed on the label.

Stress

Stress is unavoidable in our busy world. You can limit the amount of everyday stress you have by developing calming methods and through exercise. Some stress is dealt with through prescription medication. Herbal treatments can be very beneficial, but consult with your physician first if you are already taking medication.

Siberian Ginseng – This herb helps boost the health of the adrenal glands, helping the body resist stress-related illnesses. It can also improve mental alertness. It is safe to be used as part of a daily regime. Take in capsule form following the directions.

Panax Ginseng - This type of ginseng improves the body’s ability to cope with stress. Used as a tonic, it is thought of as a fortification tonic. It is most often taken in capsule form. Herbal practitioners recommend using for two weeks at a time followed by a one-week rest before starting again. Do not take if you have high blood pressure, and do not combine with caffeine.

Schisandra - Commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine, these berries can be used as a general tonic that helps counter stress and fatigue. It also helps increase mental function. Take up to six 580milligram capsules per day.

Kava-Kava - The root of this herb helps calm nerves without side effects associated with prescription medication. It is typically used in capsule form. Do not take with prescription drugs or alcohol, and do not drive while taking this herb as it acts like a sedative.

St.-John’s-Wort - A common treatment for anxiety and depression, it is also useful in treating the symptoms of stress. Studies have shown that it is as effective as Prozac and other anti-depressants. It is commonly taken as a tea and is also available in capsule form. Do not take with prescription anti-depressants unless instructed to do so by a doctor.

Sunburn and Minor Burns

Sunburn and minor burns respond well to topical herbal treatments with salves, creams and ointments. If the burn is severe or covers a large part of the body you should seek medical treatment.

Aloe - Aloe is the best topical herbal treatment for minor burns, including sunburn. It has properties that not only cool the skin but promote fast healing. It can be readily found in any drug store. Look for aloe gel that contains close to 100% aloe.

Tea - Green and black teas act as topical cooling agents for sunburn. It has been used as a home remedy for years. Wet the tea bag with cool water and apply to the affected areas. For larger areas you can steep a kettle of tea, cool and pour over the skin as a rinse.

Calendula - Calendula is known for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. It helps cool and calm the skin, and you can use it as a tearinse for the skin. It is also found as a major ingredient in many herbal sunburn or skin creams found at the health food store.

Witch Hazel - Witch hazel is an astringent and acts to decrease swelling, and it also soothes the skin. Simply apply to the affected skin with a clean cloth or cotton ball.

Toothaches

A toothache can bring sever pain. It signals a problem with a tooth or gum and needs to be looked at by a dentist. If you can’t get to a dentist immediately, however, you can help ease the pain with an herbal remedy.

Clove - Clove essential oil is a strong natural pain reliever. Used topically, buy clove essential oil at the health food store. Apply with a clean cloth or hold on the effected tooth with a cotton swab. Hold on for a few minutes, and it will gently numb the area.

Turmeric - This spice is known as an anti-inflammatory and antibacterial, and it helps fight infection. You can mix the spice with water to form a paste and dab onto the tooth.

Chamomile - Chamomile will help soothe the aching tooth and calm your nerves as well. It is known to fight infection and promotes healing. It is very safe to use. Drink as a tea or use the tea as a mouth rinse.

Ulcers

Ulcers are sores in the stomach or gastrointestinal tract, and they can be extremely painful. Get medical attention to determine the exact cause of the pain. Herbal treatments are useful for ulcers that are not severe.

Licorice - Herbalists say that licorice works as well on ulcers as prescription medication, but without any side effects. It helps rid the body of harmful bacteria and induces healing. Look for the form of licorice called DGL, which is the best type to use on ulcers. It needs saliva to activate the helpful ingredients, so this herb is best taken as a tea or tincture. Your use should be limited to 6 weeks at a time unless instructed otherwise by a doctor.

Chamomile - The calming properties of chamomile help heal the stomach and digestive tract. It decreases inflammation, and can also help calm nerves that perpetuate ulcers. Take as a tea or tincture up to 4 times per day.

Calendula - Calendula helps promote healing and has astringent properties that can help stop bleeding. Take as a tea or tincture up to 4 times per day.

Meadowsweet - This herb soothes the stomach and digestive tract. It reduces excess acid by soothing the stomach lining. It is available as a tea, and you should not use if you have an allergy to aspirin.

Warts

Warts are caused by a virus called the human papillomavirus, which has many strains. Common on the hands, they can pop up anywhere, especially on the face, feet and neck. You may want to try an herbal remedy to help remove warts. Remember that it can takes weeks to see any results from herbal use.

Celandine - The sap from this member of the poppy family can help reduce or eliminate warts, and helps with other skin problems as well. If you have the plant, take some of the sap and dab it onto the wart daily. If not, you can brew some strong tea with the dried root and dab the mixture onto the wart daily.

Black Birch Bark - The bark from the black birch contains antiviral compounds and salicylic acid, the same ingredients found in many over the counter wart removal salves. You can purchase the powder from a natural health store and make a paste by mixing some with water. Apply daily to the wart.

Bloodroot - This herb is known to help heal warts and has been used for centuries. Get the powder form from a natural health food store, and mix with water to form a paste and apply to the wart daily.

Dandelion - Some people claim the milk from a dandelion can remove warts. To try, simply pick the dandelion at the bottom and squeeze some of the milky inner substance onto the wart. Repeat daily.