It shortens the duration and severity of colds. Digestive home remedies Ginger — helpful for upset stomach, nausea and motion sickness. Probiotics — live bacteria and yeasts that are good for your digestive system. Probiotics can help with diarrhea caused by infections or related to antibiotic use.

Available as supplements and in foods like yogurt, miso paste, kombucha, kimchi and raw sauerkraut. Topical products for soreness and skin irritation Arnica cream — sooths muscle aches, pains and bruising.

Tea tree oil — an anti-inflammatory agent for bacterial or fungus infections. Calendula — soothes skin irritations like eczema and diaper rash. Natural remedies for sleep Tea — try chamomile tea in the evening as you are winding down. Lavender — an aromatherapy oil used for calming and relaxation.

Safe for both young children and older adults. Natural remedies for anxiety Set aside five minutes before starting your day for slow, deep breathing. Think about the day ahead, what you are grateful for and the people in your life On the way to school, teach your kids to use breathing exercises to help them prepare for the day ahead.

Slow down breathing by inhaling for four seconds and exhaling for six seconds. This activates the part of the nervous system that calms us. Choose calming music to listen to on your way to and from work or school. Spend a few minutes after work to prepare for the transition home.

Put to rest the unresolved issues at work and shift your focus to your family. One caveat: If you are dizzy or weak from the flu, sit in a chair in your bathroom while you run a hot shower. To help your sinuses drain , sleep with an extra pillow under your head.

Talk to your doctor before starting nasal irrigation therapy. Never use tap water for nasal irrigation. The use of contaminated tap water for sinus rinsing has been linked to a rare, but potentially deadly brain infection. Use boiled and cooled tap water, sterile or distilled water, or saline solution instead.

Some people swear by echinacea or zinc supplements, but research on their benefits is inconclusive. For a lot of people, it's trial and error to find what works best. Need to make an appointment with a Piedmont physician?

Save time, book online. Close X. All Content Living Real Change Physician's Name News. Back to Living Real Change Sign up to receive the Living Real Change Newsletter. Sign up to receive the Living Real Change Newsletter First Name Last Name Email Address Birthdate. Zip Code. The best natural cold and flu remedies 1.

Hydration Austin's number one recommendation for recovering quickly from a cold or flu virus is staying hydrated. Vitamin C While vitamin C hasn't been proven to prevent cold symptoms, some studies have indicated it can shorten the lifespan of a cold. Sleep "It's so important to get plenty of rest during cold and flu season ," says Austin.

Honey and tea "I'm a honey fanatic," she says. Chicken soup Sometimes mom really does know best! Aromatherapy Break up mucus by rubbing a bit of camphor or menthol salve around — not in! A steamy shower A steamy shower or sauna is a great decongestant, says Austin.

Sleep with an extra pillow To help your sinuses drain , sleep with an extra pillow under your head. Natural cold remedies to use with caution Nasal irrigation "Nasal irrigation can be helpful in irrigating and hydrating nasal passages so they aren't dry and cracked, which can break the skin's protective barrier against viruses and bacteria," she says.

Herbal supplements and vitamins Some people swear by echinacea or zinc supplements, but research on their benefits is inconclusive. Related Stories. Why do paper cuts hurt so much?

There is no recommended daily intake of echinacea. To prepare loose-leaf echinacea tea:. Echinacea can be hard on the digestive system and may cause stomach upset. Experts say echinacea should only be used on a short-term basis. Check with your healthcare professional before using echinacea. It may interact with your medications, particularly medicines that affect your liver.

If you are allergic to plants in the daisy family, such as ragweed, marigold, and daisies, you may have an allergic reaction to echinacea.

Garlic is 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. Traditional medicinal uses include preventing infection, lowering blood pressure, treating tuberculosis, colic, liver disease, and intestinal worms, and reducing fevers.

The compounds found in garlic have antimicrobial, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory properties. Research shows garlic can lower blood pressure and 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. Recommended daily dosages vary depending on how you are using garlic, including:. Speak with your doctor if you plan to supplement with garlic for its health benefits.

Garlic can increase the risk of bleeding and should not be used if you are taking blood thinners. For that same reason, do not take large amounts of garlic before surgery or dental procedures.

Ginger Zingiber officinale has a leafy stem and yellow-green flowers. Native to Asia and India, ginger belongs to the Zingiberaceae family. The versatile spice comes from the underground stem of the ginger plant and is added to foods and beverages worldwide.

In traditional Chinese medicine, the fresh rhizoma underground stem of Zingiber officinale Roscoe is used, called Zingiberis Rhizoma Recens. Ginger has been used extensively since the s in many traditional medicines worldwide. Over 2, years ago, ginger was so valued and sought after for its medicinal properties that a pound of it was equivalent to the cost of a sheep.

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. Regarding its medicinal properties, ginger is perhaps best known for its ability to help reduce nausea.

Research confirms ginger may help relieve nausea and vomiting for people undergoing surgery and pregnancy-related nausea. Ginger may also help relieve chemotherapy-related nausea. 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. Ginger is versatile and used in many forms, including fresh, dried, pickled, candied, and powdered.

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 are numerous ways to consume ginger, including in tea.

You can purchase ginger tea bags in most grocery stores or make them at home with fresh ginger. If you consume fresh ginger, peel the skin with a vegetable peeler before use.

Ginger is considered to be safe when taken orally as a dietary supplement, and it may also be safe when used topically on the skin. Side effects are generally mild and include diarrhea, heartburn, and abdominal discomfort, particularly when consumed in large doses.

Though using ginger during pregnancy is considered safe, talk with your healthcare professional before using it if you want to reduce pregnancy-related nausea and vomiting. Ginkgo biloba widely known as ginkgo 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.

The nut is also 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, and tinnitus ringing in the ears.

Some people believe that ginkgo has powerful brain-boosting properties, though more studies are needed to determine if this is true.

The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health notes no conclusive evidence that ginkgo helps any medical condition.

There is currently no recommended standardized dose of ginkgo. Different doses and formulations have been used in various research studies. The right dose for you will depend on your age, medical history, sex, and type of formulation used. 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. It should not be taken with NSAIDs, anticoagulants, anticonvulsants, or tricyclic antidepressants due to potential drug interactions. Ginseng is a well-known herb with several health benefits attributed to it. American ginseng Panax quinquefolius is an herbaceous perennial native to deciduous forests of the United States.

Asian ginseng Panax ginseng is native to China, Korea, and eastern Siberia. Siberian ginseng Eleutherococcus senticosus is also called eleuthero or ci wu jia in traditional Chinese medicine.

It is less of a tonic than the other types and functions more as an adaptogen. Panax notoginseng, also called radix notoginseng or sanchi , is traditionally used to control bleeding. Ginseng has been used for thousands of years in traditional Chinese medicine.

The herb has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antiobesity, and antiviral properties, making it a popular herb for medicinal use even today. Research shows that ginseng helps improve circulation, boosts immunity, and protects against certain types of cancer.

The powerful herb has also been shown to reduce blood sugar levels and improve diabetes treatments. Studies show that ginseng improves learning and memory acquisition, making it a popular antiaging herb to support brain health in older adults.

Ginseng has also been shown to reduce inflammation in the body and has potency for pain relief and inflammation reduction comparable to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory NSAIDs medications. There are many ways to consume ginseng to reap its health benefits.

If you purchase fresh ginseng, it can be eaten raw or steamed. Freshly sliced ginseng can also be steeped in hot water to make tea. It can also be added to food and is popular in stir-fry meals and soups.

However, these culinary uses are too costly if you buy expensive ginseng. Ginseng is also available in health food stores and some drug stores as a dietary supplement.

It can be purchased in capsule, powder, and extract forms. There is currently no daily recommended dosage of ginseng, and various amounts have been examined in research studies, ranging from 0. If you use ginseng supplements, follow the dosage directions on the label.

Ginseng is generally safe for consumption with no serious side effects. The most common side effects include headache, gastrointestinal discomfort, and trouble sleeping. There is some evidence to suggest that long-term use of ginseng decreases its effectiveness, so take the supplement for two to three weeks with a one to two-week break to enjoy its benefits.

If you take medications for diabetes, monitor your glucose levels closely when consuming ginseng to ensure your levels do not get too low.

Talk with your healthcare professional 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 Coumadin warfarin.

One of the most popular herbs in the world, lavender Lavandula is a pleasant-smelling evergreen shrub that grows in low mounds and is native to the Mediterranean. Lavender is in the mint family and thrives in many places around the globe. The versatile herb is used in personal care products, baking, and essential oils, and has become one of the most well-studied herbs due to its potential health benefits.

Lavender has been used by humans for centuries, for everything from perfumes to aromatherapy to medicinal purposes. Evidence suggests that lavender promotes sleep, improves memory, relieves pain, and uplifts mood.

In animal and human studies, lavender has been proven to have anticonvulsant, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities. 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. You can grow lavender in your garden if you live in a climate that supports its growth. The essential oil can be diffused in an air diffuser or massaged directly onto the skin once diluted with a carrier oil, such as almond or olive oil.

You can also apply it to your linens or on a cotton ball to inhale it for aromatherapy. Lavender tea is available in premade tea bags, or you can steep dried lavender flower buds in hot water for a caffeine-free tea.

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 a tea, may cause constipation, headaches, or increased appetite. Saint-John's-wort is a plant with yellow flowers. It is native to Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa, though it now grows throughout the United States.

Feverfew can cause side effects such as nausea, digestive problems, and bloating. So, it is important to talk with a qualified healthcare professional before trying feverfew. Curcuma, the active ingredient in the spice turmeric , has pain-relieving qualities.

A review claims that curcumin shows a reduction in pain similar to that of Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs NSAIDs. However, researchers recommend turmeric as a safe adjunction to NSAID therapy rather than in place of it.

Turmeric is also a common herbal remedy for reducing inflammation. To include turmeric in its natural form in the diet, a person could try adding it to curries, smoothies, or juices.

Acupuncture is an alternative therapy that advocates believe can help reduce pain. Recent research supports these beliefs. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health NCCIH states that acupuncture can help with certain types of pain, including:.

It may also reduce how frequently people get tension headaches and could help prevent migraine headaches. A meta-analysis found that acupuncture is an effective way to manage chronic pain. The researchers concluded that acupuncture could help with musculoskeletal pain, headache, and pain associated with osteoarthritis.

More research into the effects of acupuncture for other pain conditions is now needed, but increasing evidence is suggesting that acupuncture is effective for many types of pain.

In fact, acupuncture may help in more than different conditions. Yoga is a physical meditation practice that may offer a way to manage pain naturally.

Managing back pain often includes stretching and physical therapy. Yoga provides this. It incorporates breathing exercises , self-care, and relaxation methods, so practicing yoga may also relieve pain related to stress or anxiety.

A study found that 12 weeks of yoga helped to significantly reduce lower back pain. The NCCIH states that yoga may help relieve lower back pain and neck pain, but that there is not enough evidence that it can help for other conditions, such as headache, arthritis, or fibromyalgia.

People experiencing chronic pain are increasingly turning to mindfulness meditation as a natural treatment. More research is needed, but initial studies are promising.

A systematic review and meta-analysis looked at 38 studies and eventually concluded that mindfulness meditation can improve pain symptoms, depression, and quality of life. However, the authors say that larger studies are needed to see exactly how effective it is.

Essential oils, such as lavender oil and peppermint oil, may relieve pain naturally. This is also the case for certain herbs such as clove and feverfew. Acupuncture, yoga, and mindfulness meditation are thought to be natural pain relievers too.

Relaxation techniques, breathing exercises, and heat and cold treatment can be home remedies that alleviate pain quickly. When a person takes traditional pain relief medication as prescribed, with guidance from a qualified healthcare professional, it is a safe and effective way to manage pain.

Natural pain relievers, however, offer an alternative for people who want to avoid the long term side effects of pain relief medication.

People can use essential oils by adding a few drops to a tissue or a steam bath and inhaling the vapor. People can also add the herbs and spices listed above to food. However, if a person is unable to do that, they can instead take them as supplements.

Not every natural pain reliever will work for everyone. Some people may find that a natural option that works well for them in the long term. Others may not be able to manage pain naturally and may prefer traditional medication.

Anyone with severe pain, including pain related to an existing health condition, should speak with a qualified healthcare professional. They can advise how best to manage this.

Chronic pain is complex, and it can take some time to work out the best methods for pain relief. Read about various pain relief techniques here.

A number of natural and non-drug remedies may help relieve the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Find out how rest, flotation therapy, acupuncture, and others…. Back pain is a widespread and potentially debilitating problem. Learn which home remedies can relieve back pain quickly and help prevent it in the….

Inhaling lavender can help with that. Studies shows that lavender helps with:. Drinking lavender tea or keeping a satchel around for times of high stress is one way to reduce anxiety and relax the mind and body. As an essential oil, it can also be combined with other plant oils for aromatherapy.

One study found that in combination with sage and rose, lavender was helpful in relieving premenstrual syndrome PMS symptoms. While lavender is a powerful plant, it can come with side effects. Directly applying essential oil without diluting it may irritate the skin or potentially affect hormone levels.

Always diffuse and dilute essential oils before use. Depending on the type, it can provide different uses and benefits.

This effect helps with joint and muscle pain. An ingredient in many different cures, peppermint has been found to be especially effective in helping treat irritable bowel syndrome IBS symptoms. Studies show that along with fiber, it helps reduce spasms , as well as diarrhea and abdominal pain associated with IBS.

Peppermint activates an anti-pain channel in the colon, which reduces inflammatory pain in the digestive tract. This most likely accounts for its effectiveness in treating IBS. Beyond digestion and stomach troubles, a peppermint oil capsule or tea may also help with headaches, colds, and other body discomforts.

Fenugreek seeds are often used in cooking in the Mediterranean and Asia, but this spice, which is similar to cloves, has several medicinal uses. When made into a tea, fenugreek can help with milk production for breastfeeding.

For people experiencing diarrhea, fenugreek is a great water-soluble fiber to help firm up stools. As a supplement, fenugreek has also been found to lower blood sugar , making it a popular aid for people with diabetes.

Fenugreek is often ground and used in curries, dry rubs, and in teas. You can add it to your yogurt for a small savory taste, or sprinkle it over your salads. Feeling muscle pains?

More migraine attacks? More likely to slip into a numbed emotional state than usual? It might be a magnesium deficiency. But studies show that almost half of the U.

Spinach, almonds, avocados, and even dark chocolate are all rich in magnesium. When it comes to mood, magnesium may also help. Magnesium works with the parasympathetic nervous system, which keeps you calm and relaxed, suggesting that having a magnesium-rich diet might aid in stress relief.

And if you have an allergic reaction or worsening symptoms from any home remedy, speak to a doctor right away. Keep in mind that home remedies may not always be safe and effective for you. What research notes as beneficial may not always work for you.

Many of the remedies we listed above are ones we grew up with, ones that families have passed down and brought us up on since we were children, and we look forward to falling back on them when we need the comfort.

Rosa Escandón is a New York-based writer and comedian. She is a contributor to Forbes and a former writer at the Tusk and Laughspin. Visit her website. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

One natural treatment for alleviating fibromyalgia pain is rubbing essential oils on your skin. Here's a thorough look at your best options for this…. Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection that people of any age can get through direct contact with an infected person or object.

While home remedies…. To avoid the side effects and possible toxicity of medications, you might turn to natural painkillers instead. Check out these five surprising options.

There are many ways you can treat your sensitive teeth at home before having to visit a dentist. Learn about 8 home remedies for reducing tooth…. Vitamin IV therapy infuses vitamins directly into the bloodstream. It can also offer the body some extra hydration.

Dry needling is a type of alternative medicine that uses tiny needles to stimulate nerve endings to promote muscle relaxation and pain relief.

This aromatic, purple flower has a fairly strong standing among studies, which have mainly focused on its anti-anxiety capacities. The calming powers of chamomile have been frequently studied, including a study that states chamomile is superior to taking a placebo when treating generalized anxiety disorder.

There are two types of chamomile: German chamomile, an annual that thrives in the Midwest, and Roman chamomile, a perennial that attracts pollinators and smells like apples.

Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. Looking for natural stress relief?

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While peppermint tea is often enjoyed for its flavor, it may also have several positive effects on health. Here are 12 science-backed benefits of…. Phosphatidylcholine is known to boost cognition, but its potential benefits don't stop there.

Here's what you should know about this herbal remedy. Research suggests rhodiola and ashwagandha work well together, but you may want to take them at different times of day. While research is still evolving, ashwagandha shows potential in addressing various aspects of fertility, including libido, hormone levels, and sexual….

A Quiz for Teens Are You a Workaholic? How Well Do You Sleep? Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Medically reviewed by Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.

Gingko Turmeric Evening primrose oil Flax seed Tea tree oil Echinacea Grapeseed extract Lavender Chamomile. We scoured through histories of herbal studies for you. Was this helpful? Things to consider Long-term use may increase chance of thyroid and liver cancer , which has been seen in rats.

It can interact with blood thinners. Gingko seeds are poisonous if ingested. Side effects can include headache, upset stomach, dizziness, and allergic reaction.

Gingko use needs to be discussed with your doctor because of numerous drug interactions. Share on Pinterest. Turmeric could be beneficial for: pain caused by inflammatory diseases, like arthritis preventing cancer stopping DNA mutations several skin diseases. Things to consider When used as a supplement, people tend to take too much, so it can be difficult to trust the dosage and quality.

Safety increases when ingested as an herb in cooking or tea. Long-term use can potentially cause stomach problems. Turmeric has low bioavailability. Consuming with pepper can help your body absorb more of its benefits.

Evening primrose oil. Evening primrose oil could be beneficial for: PMS mild skin conditions breast pain menopause inflammation diabetic neuropathy multiple sclerosis PCOS blood pressure. Things to consider interacts with some blood-clotting medications safety during pregnancy is uncertain may interfere with drug absorption during HIV treatment interacts with lithium for bipolar disorder long-term use may not be safe.

Flax seed. Flax seed could be beneficial for: decreasing obesity regulating blood pressure preventing colon cancer inflammation hot flashes. Things to consider Flax seed can affect estrogen production in women, especially if they have a history of cancer or are pregnant.

Tea tree oil. Things to consider Tea tree oil is poisonous if taken orally. Your skin could experience an allergic reaction. It may influence hormones. Echinacea could be beneficial for: colds immunity bronchitis upper respiratory infections. Things to consider It can be tough on the digestive tract and upset the stomach.

Allergic reactions are possible. Grapeseed extract. Grapeseed extract could be beneficial for: cancer lowering LDL bad cholesterol leg vein circulation edema blood pressure. It may reduce iron absorption.

Lavender could be beneficial for: anxiety stress blood pressure migraine. Things to consider It can cause skin irritation.

It may disrupt hormones when applied undiluted. Chamomile could be beneficial for: anxiety stress insomnia cancer. Things to consider It can cause allergic reactions. How we reviewed this article: Sources.

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

Feb 28, Written By Shelby Deering. Medically Reviewed By Debra Rose Wilson, PhD, MSN, RN, IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT. Share this article. Read this next. How to Use Herbs for Anxiety and Stress.

Medically reviewed by Katherine Marengo LDN, R. How Gardening Helps My Anxiety and 4 Steps to Get Started. And if you have an allergic reaction or worsening symptoms from any home remedy, speak to a doctor right away.

Keep in mind that home remedies may not always be safe and effective for you. What research notes as beneficial may not always work for you. Many of the remedies we listed above are ones we grew up with, ones that families have passed down and brought us up on since we were children, and we look forward to falling back on them when we need the comfort.

Rosa Escandón is a New York-based writer and comedian. She is a contributor to Forbes and a former writer at the Tusk and Laughspin. Visit her website. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

One natural treatment for alleviating fibromyalgia pain is rubbing essential oils on your skin. Here's a thorough look at your best options for this….

Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection that people of any age can get through direct contact with an infected person or object.

While home remedies…. To avoid the side effects and possible toxicity of medications, you might turn to natural painkillers instead. Check out these five surprising options. There are many ways you can treat your sensitive teeth at home before having to visit a dentist. Learn about 8 home remedies for reducing tooth….

Vitamin IV therapy infuses vitamins directly into the bloodstream. It can also offer the body some extra hydration. Dry needling is a type of alternative medicine that uses tiny needles to stimulate nerve endings to promote muscle relaxation and pain relief. Homeopathy involves diluted substances to prompt your body's natural healing process.

Wintergreen oil or oil of wintergreen has a lot in common with the active ingredient in aspirin. Crystals are a popular alternative medicine tool, but can they really help you heal?

The law of attraction is meant to manifest your desires, but can it be an unhealthy way to ignore the negative? A Quiz for Teens Are You a Workaholic? How Well Do You Sleep? Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect.

Sexual Health. Birth control STIs HIV HSV Activity Relationships. Medically reviewed by Deborah Weatherspoon, Ph. Turmeric Chili Ginger Shiitake Eucalyptus Lavender Mint Fenugreek Magnesium Takeaway Many home remedies exist that may help treat a variety of things, such as colds, inflammation, and pain.

Turmeric for pain and inflammation. Drink a cup per day Turmeric is about the long game. Was this helpful? Chili peppers for pain and soreness. DIY capsaicin coconut oil cream Mix 3 tbsp. of cayenne powder with 1 cup of coconut. Heat the oil on a low simmer until it melts.

Stir the mixture thoroughly for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and pour into a bowl. Let it firm up. Massage onto skin when cooled. Ginger for pain and nausea. Ginger tea recipe Grate half an inch of raw ginger. Boil 2 cups of water and pour over ginger. Let sit for 5 to 10 minutes.

Add juice from a lemon, and add honey or agave nectar to taste. Shiitake mushrooms for the long game. Eucalyptus oil for pain relief. Lavender for migraine and anxiety. Mint for muscle pain and digestion. Fenugreek for breastfeeding. Fenugreek in cooking Fenugreek is often ground and used in curries, dry rubs, and in teas.

Magnesium-rich foods for everything. Foods high in magnesium lentils, beans, chickpeas, and peas tofu whole grains fatty fish, like salmon, mackerel, and halibut bananas. Make sure to use home remedies correctly.

Plants as Medicine. How we reviewed this article: Sources. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations.

We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy. Jun 1, Written By Rosa Escandon. Medically Reviewed By Deborah Weatherspoon, Ph. Share this article.

Read this next. Essential Oils for Fibromyalgia. Medically reviewed by Debra Rose Wilson, Ph. Natural Remedies for Impetigo You Can Do at Home. Medically reviewed by Karen Gill, M.

READ MORE. Home Remedies for Sensitive Teeth. Medically reviewed by Christine Frank, DDS. What Is Vitamin IV Therapy and How Does It Work? Dry Needling for Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Bowen is a holistic remedial body technique that works on the soft connective tissue fascia of the body. Bowen therapy can be used to treat musculoskeletal or related neurological problems including acute sports injuries and chronic or organic conditions.

It is gentle and relaxing and does not use forceful manipulation. Content on this website is provided for information purposes only. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not in any way endorse or support such therapy, service, product or treatment and is not intended to replace advice from your doctor or other registered health professional.

The information and materials contained on this website are not intended to constitute a comprehensive guide concerning all aspects of the therapy, product or treatment described on the website. All users are urged to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for diagnosis and answers to their medical questions and to ascertain whether the particular therapy, service, product or treatment described on the website is suitable in their circumstances.

The State of Victoria and the Department of Health shall not bear any liability for reliance by any user on the materials contained on this website. Skip to main content. Complementary and alternative care. Home Complementary and alternative care. Herbal medicine. Actions for this page Listen Print.

Summary Read the full fact sheet. On this page. What is herbal medicine? Active ingredients and herbal medicine Medicinal uses for specific herbs Do not self-diagnose ailments Special considerations for herbal medicine Where to get help.

Active ingredients and herbal medicine Herbal medicines contain active ingredients. Medicinal uses for specific herbs Herbal medicine aims to return the body to a state of natural balance so that it can heal itself.

Some herbs that are commonly used in herbal medicine, and their traditional uses, include: Echinacea — to stimulate the immune system and aid the body in fighting infection. Used to treat ailments such as boils , fever and herpes. Dong quai dang gui — used for gynaecological complaints such as premenstrual tension , menopause symptoms and period pain.

Some studies indicate that dong quai can lower blood pressure. Garlic — used to reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering levels of blood fats and cholesterol a type of blood fat.

The antibiotic and antiviral properties of garlic mean that it is also used to fight colds , sinusitis and other respiratory infections. Ginger — many studies have shown ginger to be useful in treating nausea, including motion sickness and morning sickness.

Ginkgo biloba — commonly used to treat poor blood circulation and tinnitus ringing in the ears. Ginseng — generally used to treat fatigue , for example during recovery from illness. It is also used to reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels, however overuse of ginseng has been associated with raised blood pressure.

It is also used for anxiety and insomnia. Do not self-diagnose ailments It is very important that people do not self-diagnose any health conditions.

Special considerations for herbal medicine Herbal medicines can be mistakenly thought to be completely safe because they are 'natural' products. Herbal medicines may produce negative effects that can range from mild to severe, including: allergic reactions and rashes asthma headaches nausea vomiting diarrhoea.

This may include: Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency AHPRA External Link — Chinese medicine practitioners, chiropractors, osteopaths Naturopaths and Herbalists Association of Australia NHAA External Link — Western herbalists and naturopaths Australian Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Association External Link — the peak body for Chinese medicine, acupuncturists, herbalists and traditional remedial massage practitioners.

Always tell your herbal medicine practitioner: which over-the-counter, herbal medicines, complementary medicines and prescription medications you are taking any allergic reactions you have experienced if you are pregnant , planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Be aware herbal medicine can interact with other medications Herbal medications and supplements may interact in harmful ways with over-the-counter or prescription medicines you are taking.

Purchase herbal medicine products from a reputable supplier Not all herbal medicines that are sold are safe.

If you are considering taking herbal medicine, it is recommended that you: Never stop taking prescribed medications without consulting your doctor. Always tell your doctor if you are planning to start a course of herbal medicine for your condition.

Always purchase products from a reputable source. Be cautious about buying herbal medicines or supplements manufactured overseas. Take all herbal medicines strictly as prescribed and consult your health practitioner immediately if you experience any side effects.

Where to get help Your GP doctor A qualified herbal therapist or naturopath Your pharmacist Medicines Line External Link — for information on prescription, over-the-counter and complementary medicines. Complementary medicines explained External Link , , NPS MedicineWise. An overview of the regulation of complementary medicines in Australia External Link , , Therapeutic Goods Administration, Department of Health, Australian Government.

Advice for health professionals regarding unregulated complementary medicines CAMS , Department of Health, Victorian Government. Australian regulatory guidelines for complementary medicines ARGCM External Link , Version 8. Lead in food, cosmetics, and medicines External Link , , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, USA.

Give feedback about this page. She recommends 64 ounces of fluid a day, but talk to your doctor about your specific needs. Some people, such as those with congestive heart failure , should drink less water.

While vitamin C hasn't been proven to prevent cold symptoms, some studies have indicated it can shorten the lifespan of a cold. Plus, it boosts your overall health, including your immune system. Austin recommends getting the vitamin through your diet.

The fresher the food, the better. Think oranges, rather than orange juice or supplements. Overdoing it on vitamin C supplements not dietary vitamin C can lead to upset stomach and kidney stones. Sleep helps your immune system function at its best to ward off nasty viruses and bacteria.

Add the natural sweetener opt for a local variety when possible to a cup of ginger or cinnamon tea to relieve a scratchy throat and stay hydrated. Sometimes mom really does know best! Hot liquids, such as soup, help reduce mucus buildup and keep you hydrated.

A study from the University of Nebraska Medical Center found chicken soup has anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce a cold's unpleasant side effects. Break up mucus by rubbing a bit of camphor or menthol salve around — not in! You can also reduce congestion by breathing in aromatherapy oils , such as peppermint and eucalyptus.

A steamy shower or sauna is a great decongestant, says Austin. One caveat: If you are dizzy or weak from the flu, sit in a chair in your bathroom while you run a hot shower.

To help your sinuses drain , sleep with an extra pillow under your head. Talk to your doctor before starting nasal irrigation therapy. Never use tap water for nasal irrigation.

The use of contaminated tap water for sinus rinsing has been linked to a rare, but potentially deadly brain infection.

Use boiled and cooled tap water, sterile or distilled water, or saline solution instead. Some people swear by echinacea or zinc supplements, but research on their benefits is inconclusive. For a lot of people, it's trial and error to find what works best. Need to make an appointment with a Piedmont physician?

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