Herbs have long been an acceptable way to fight common ailments
and while they should not take the place of medical advice, can
be a great supplement to your current medical care. There are
many common herbs that have healing properties which you may
not even know about.

Some of the herbs like garlic, parsley, rosemary and cayenne
you may associate more with cooking, but these plants also have
medicinal properties that you can easily put to use by using
them in teas, compresses and even as spices in your meals!

Some common healing herbs include:

Aloe Vera
The gel within this plant is reputed to heal wounds and other
skin problems such as sunburn. It is also a strong laxative.
The plant can be grown in your garden in tropical climates or
on your window sill. Slit open the leaves and use the juice
inside.

Cayenne
Cayenne is great for the circulation and it’s no wonder with
it's spicy bite! You can use it in your food, or if you are
really brave, in a tea. You can also take it in a capsule. It
is said that Cayenne will help to expedite the healing effects
of other herbs.

Chamomile
This herb has many uses. In a tea, it has a relaxing effect and
can sooth the digestive system. It is also excellent for the
skin when applied topically in a cream or lotion. Many herbal
soaps, shampoos and lotions include this herb which has been
used since ancient times.

Echinacea
This much publicized herb can help stabilize the immune system.
It can be taken as a pill or tincture or pulled out of the
ground an eaten as a snack! You may have some of these purple
daisy like flowers growing near you and not even realize that
they have medicinal properties.

Garlic
You thought it was just a tasty root to put on bread but this
herb has been used since ancient Egypt and has properties that
strengthen the immune system. It is used as a treatment for
infections, coughs and colds.

Ginger
Our herb guide likes ginger as it can be used in so many
dishes. It is reputed to aid in circulation.

Parsley
Rich in potassium, this herb is often used as a garnish and
left uneaten. I suggest you put it right in your salad and eat
it up - it has many vitamins and is reputed to strengthen the
kidneys and help with waste removal.

Rosemary
This herb stimulates circulation and aids in memory.