
When I began studying herbs, I created a list of recommendations, according to Dr. Weil’s Guide to Optimum Health. While the list grew, as I became more confident in using natural remedies, these basic must-haves continue to be my base.
A small sampling of what’s in my own “medicine cabinet.”
- Echinacea: may be helpful for shortening the duration of colds and simple infections. We keep Echinacea in our home in a tincture form and find it helpful during cold and allergy season. As soon as I hear a sniffle, he or she gets about a dropper full.
- Chamomile may be used as a stomach soother, helpful with colic and for relaxation. I drank a cup in the evenings when I had morning sickness.
- Peppermint is referred to as a stomach soother, possibly helpful for Upper GI distress and IBS. When I was pregnant with my third baby, I naturally wanted peppermint when I had morning sickness.
- Garlic, preferably fresh. Garlic is considered helpful for blood pressure, cholesterol, and possibly even as a blood thinner. According to Dr. Weil, garlic is considered the only true nutritional anti-biotic.
- Ginseng includes a warning that it can interfere with sleep. It’s believed to increase longevity and energy. Dr. Weil notes that it’s good for the elderly.
- Ginkgo Dr Weil states that this increases blood circulation and mental stimulation, but only if the person’s lack of mental clarity is a result of poor circulation.
- Ginger and Tumeric are both considered anti-inflammatories. Ginger is known as a stomach soother which helps motion sickness and nausea. Dr. Weil states that tumeric is a good partner with ginger and helps to support immunity. During my fifth pregnancy, I found candied ginger (NOT to be confused with ginger flavored candy) very useful.
- Gentian is believed to stimulate the digestive system.
- Tea Tree Oil is a staple in our home. In several sources, I’ve seen it listed as a disinfectant, anti-fungal, and an anti-bacterial.
- Milk Thistle is popularly called a liver tonic. Dr. Weil said that it may help with Hepatitis viruses and strengthening and protecting the liver. It’s also a galactagogue and may help support lactation.
Do you have additional info for any of the items listed above? If so, please share in the comments below.
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We always have elderberry syrup, astragalus glycerite, milk thistle, and red raspberry leaf on hand (although we have quite a large selection of herbs, you never know what you will need!).
Thanks for these helpful tips!
Visiting from Soul Survival.
You’re welcome! 🙂 Thanks for visiting.
Great list! Pinning!
Thanks for stopping by, Roseann.:)