Top 7 Herbal Plants to Combat Flu and Colds

Colds and flu affect everyone, especially at certain times of the year. Treat symptoms safely with herbs. There is less risk of side effects because they’re all-natural.

The best herbal plants for colds and flu have been in use for hundreds of years. Scientific studies have found that these herbs contain different compounds that help in the fight against infections, including flu and colds. Some of these compounds attack the organisms that cause the sickness.

Some of the compounds help ease the body’s inflammatory responses to exposure to threats such as dust and pollen. And some strengthen the immune cells to better respond to the threats.

Astragalus membranaceus

Simply called Astragalus, this perennial plant contains compounds in its roots that can help in boosting the function of the immune system. The yellow root is sliced and added to stews and soup during the cooking process. Remove the root right before serving. The compounds from the roots can help boost antibody production, white blood cells, and T cells. All these help combat microorganisms that cause flu and cold symptoms.

This herb is very helpful but should never be taken by a pregnant woman for safety reasons.

Black Pepper

Traditional Chinese medicine has been using this herb to reduce phlegm from colds. There are so many ways to use this herb. Add a dash to soups, bone-broths, salads, or even in a cup of herbal tea.

Cinnamon
Also known as Cinnamomum verum, cinnamon is not just a sweet-smelling spice for great dishes. It can help heal the gut and strengthen your body against sickness. It helps to warm the body during flu season. It also helps in clearing mucus congestion resulting from flu and colds.

Top 9 Health Benefits of Cinnamon

Cowslip
These plants are commonly found in the country meadows. The roots have the compound called triterpenoid saponins. These are effective as expectorant agents. To help relieve chest congestion and loosen phlegm from colds and flu, make a decoction using the roots. Put 1 ounce of root into 1 cup of water. Boil then simmer the mixture for 20 minutes. Strain and cool slightly. Drink several times a day until chest congestion is relieved.

For safety purposes, avoid taking this herbal plant when taking aspirin or anti-coagulants (e.g. warfarin). Pregnant women are also not advised to take cowslip.

Echinacea purpurea
Commonly called Echinacea, this is another herbal plant that can help with faster recovery from flu and colds. This is actually the main herb that comes to mind when talking about natural ways to treat colds and flu. The root is made into tea by simmering it in water for about 10 minutes. Echinacea can speed up recovery time from flu and colds if taken during the earliest stage of infection. Once signs and symptoms of colds and flu are experienced, take Echinacea immediately. This can reduce sick days from 5-7 days to merely 2-3 days.

People with allergies to ragweed and other members of the aster plant family are advised not to take Echinacea. Symptoms may worsen and allergic reactions may even be triggered.

Eucalyptus
Who can leave out eucalyptus when talking about colds? This is the active ingredient in most over-the-counter chest rubs that promise to relieve chest and nasal congestion. Use eucalyptus essential oil for relief. Add a few drops of the essential oil in a pot of boiling water to release the vapors. Inhaling the vapors can help in clearing the sinuses and in treating bronchial infections.

Garlic
This pungent spice commonly used in so many dishes is also an effective herbal remedy for flu and colds. Garlic or Allium sativum has been an important herbal treatment for various conditions for the last 5,000 years. It is rich in compounds with antifungal, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. These properties work together to fight flu-causing microorganisms and soothe cold symptoms.

There are more herbal plants that can help treat flu and colds. These are generally safe when taken in their natural form. However, some conditions such as allergies and pregnancy require more caution when taking these herbs. Check with a physician before taking any herbal plant or herbal product for safety.

Sources: herbgardens.about.com, rodalewellness.com, motherearthliving.com

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Top 7 Herbal Plants to Combat Flu and Colds

70 Medicinal Herbal Plants You Should Grow In Your Organic Garden

Herbal plants have played an important rule in medicine for many years. Some common herbal plants such as ginger, peppermint, lavender, thyme, chamomile, dandelion and garlic are well known for us, they made great remedies that support your health and treat many ailments.

According to World Health Organization, more than 80% of people all over the world still use herbal plants and natural remedies as their primary health care tools. And day by day, more and more new drugs are derived from herbal plants as well.

So if you want to improve your health with natural ingredients, it’s better to grow the herbs by yourself, in your garden, as the freshest, most potent medicinal herbs are best than the dried ones you buy from market. Here are some easy-to-grow herbs you can get into your organic garden.

1. Chamomile


2. Chives


3. Dill


4. Onions


5. Garlic


6. Bidens


7. Burdock


8. Chickweed


9. Jewelweed


10. Plantain


11. Self heal


12. Elderberry


13. Cleavers


14. Couch grass


15. Hawthorn


16. Marsh Mallow


17. Sweet Hops


18. Sheep Sorrel


19. Anise Hyssop


20. Calendula


21. Lemon Balm


22. Mulberry


23. Rose


24. Seabuckthorn


25. Dandelion


26. Elecampane


27. Goji Berry


28. Goldenrod


29. Soopallallie/Buffalo Berry


30. Lemongrass


31. Marigold


32. Marjoram


33. Mint


34. Oregano


35. Parsley


36. Sage


37. Tarragon


38. Thyme


39. Turmeric


40. Aloe


41. Calendula


42. Camellia


43. Cedar


44. Chestnut


45. Echinacea


46. Stinging Nettle


47. Juniper


48. Lavender


49. Lemon


50. Fig


51. Ginko


52. Cinnamon


53. Anise Hyssop


54. Fennel


55. Ginger


56. Hibiscus


57. Hot Peppers


58. Shepherd’s Purse


59. Linden


60. Olive


61. Passionflower


62. Pine


63. Pomegranate


64. Rose


65. Rosemary


66. Saffron


67. Walnuts


68. Willow


69. Witchhazel


70. Marjoram

Make Your Own Remedies with Natural Herbs For Whatever Ails You

Instead of taking medicines directly, try herbal remedies first, sometimes a simple herb offers a safer alternative.

Garlic, a powerful agent to help you fight against many diseases, from combating colds, easing sinus congestion to lowering high blood pressure. It’s recommended to eat 1-2 cloves fresh garlic a day.

Catnip, works greatly to ease an upset stomach, also good at reduce stress and anxiety. You can make catnip tea by pouring a cup of boiling water over a few fresh leaves. Steep for 10 minutes and add a teaspoon raw honey to taste.

Cranberry, this is a good choice if you suffer from chronic health issues, cranberry is very beneficial for chronic prostatis. Make cranberry juice and drink half cup twice a day to get a relief.

Echinacea, a famous immune system enhancer, has been widely used to treat colds, cough and upper respiratory infections. Add 1 teaspoon dried echinacea root in a cup boiling water, steep for 10 minutes before strain. Have 3 cups a day to relieve the symptoms of colds.

Ginger, widely used as a natural remedy for easing morning sickness, nausea, upset stomach and vomiting. Have a cup of ginger root tea helps relieve the symptoms of colds too, simply added 1 teaspoon fresh ginger root in a up of hot water, steep for 10 minutes, strain and mix in a teaspoon of honey if you like. Drink 2-3 cups a day.

Keep reading to find out more healing benefits of herbal plants:

26 Natural Uses of Aloe Vera For Health, Beauty and Household

Top 9 Health Benefits of Cinnamon

14 Natural Herbs and Oils That You Can Use to Treat Arthritis

Get The Best Of Natural Living Ideas At Seekingfit.com

70 Medicinal Herbal Plants You Should Grow In Your Organic Garden

7 Plants Native Americans Used to Cure EVERYTHING (From Simple Pain to Deadly Cancer)

The Cherokee and Meskwaki are Native American tribe that is indigenous to the Southeastern United States. They believe that the Creator bless them with a gift of understanding and preserving medicinal herbs. They believed and used the benefits of nature’s pharmacy. Here are some of the medicinal plants that were commonly used by the Cherokee tribe.

7 Plants Native Americans Used to Cure Disease (From Simple Pain to Deadly Cancer)

Blackberry

Blackberry is the well known remedy for stomach problem. It is good sources of vitamin A, B6, C, E, K, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, and folate. It also contain good amount of calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium, and zinc. Using a strong tea from the root of blackberry helps to reduce swelling of tissue and joints. A decoction from the blackberry roots, sweetened with honey, makes a great cough syrup. Even chewing blackberry leaves can sooth bleeding gums and prevent cancer.

Big Stretch (Wild Ginger)

The Native American tribe Cherokee believed that the mild tea made from the root of wild ginger, to stimulate better digestion and treats stomach problems, colic, and intestinal gas. A strong tea from the root of wild ginger can wipe out emission from the lungs. Another Native American tribe, The Meskwaki, cured ear infections by utilizing pulverized, soaks stems of wild ginger.

Mint

Mint is extremely popular nowadays, and and is commonly consumed in tea form. It has strong antioxidant properties and also high in vitamin C, A, fiber, magnesium, calcium, potassium, and phosphorus.

It has been used by native americans tribes to improve digestion, and its leaves ointments used as cold compresses. Moreover, its leaves and stems were also used as a treatment for high blood pressure. If you are breast feeding and find your nipples cracking, try applying some mint water.

Navajo Tea (Greenthread)

Also called greenthread, Plains Tea or Coyote Plant, this plant has been used for centuries by Native Americans to quickly relieve that most brutal and irritating of infections: the UTI (urinary tract infection). It is best when made into a tea or decoction.

Jisdu Unigisdi (Wild Rose)

Wild rose fruit boost our immune system, it is a rich source of vitamin C which help us to fight common cold and the flu. The Cherokee drink mild tea out of wild rose hips to stimulate the function of the kidneys and the bladder. Wild rose petal infusion used to treat sore throat and a decoction of its root will treat diarrhea naturally.

Hummingbird Blossom (Buck Brush)

Native Americans used this medicinal plant to treat mouth and throat issues, inflammation and fibroid tumors, and it also has been used to treat high blood pressure and treat lymphatic blockages. The Cherokee boil its leave and flowers in water for 5 minutes and then consumed it warm in order to obtain best results.

Mullein

This herb has the power to soothe asthma and chest congestion. According to the Cherokee inhaling in the smoke from burning leaves and roots of this plant effectively open up our air pathways and calm our lungs. Mullein is very helpful in soothing mucous membranes. Soak your feet in a warm mullein decoction to lower joint pain and swelling. Due to its anti-inflammatory attributes it soothes painful and irritated tissue naturally.

Sources:

– http://www.whitewolfpack.com/2015/09/12-of-natures-most-powerful-medicinal.html

– http://in5d.com/12-plants-native-americans-used-to-cure-everything/

– http://www.healthy-holistic-living.com/plants-for-healing.html

– http://www.naturallivingideas.com/medicinal-herb-garden/

Also Read:

7 Plants Native Americans Used to Cure EVERYTHING (From Simple Pain to Deadly Cancer)

5 Non-Marijuana Plants That Also Contain Healing Cannabinoids

Cannabis has been used from many years, both recreationally and medically. Cannabinoids produced by plants are known as phytocannabinoids, those produced by the body are known as endocannabinoids. A cannabinoid is a chemical compound that interacts with a large regulatory system in the body. That system is known as the Endocannabinoid System, and it’s responsible for maintaining homeostasis in our bodies.

Homeostasis is the perfect internal balance required for optimum health. It regulate many important physiologic pathways in the human body, including gastrointestinal activity, cardiovascular activity, protection of neurons, hormonal regulation, immune function, inflammatory reactions, and inhibition of tumors cells.

5 Non-Marijuana Plants That Also Contain Healing Cannabinoids

Liverwort

This plant, indigenous to New Zealand, contains large amounts of perrottetinenic acid, which is similar to THC, the psychoactive component in cannabis. It has ability to treat bronchitis, and historically it has been used to alleviate gallbladder, liver, and bladder problems.

Echinacea

The Echinacea plant has ability to help the body beat the common cold. It is also used to relieve anxiety, chronic tiredness, splitting migraines, arthritis pains regulating the immune system, pain and inflammation level. The Echinacea possesses a ‘quality difference’ from cannabis because it uses cannabimimetics instead of cannabinoids to regulate the endocannabinoid system.

Black pepper

A very common aroma molecule or terpene, called beta-caryophyllene (BCP), found in plant essential oils and abundantly present in black pepper, has been discovered to function as a cannabinoid. Various study find that BCP could be used for the treatment of arthritis and osteoporosis, and may potentially increase the effectiveness of certain anti-cancer drugs.

Electric Daisy

A flower native to the Amazon river basin, the electric daisy has been known from centuries as an analgesic. It is successful at blocking neurons from firing at nerve endings, preventing the sensation of pain. The compounds found in the electric daisy are called N-Isobutylamides, and similarly to other cannabinoid-like compounds they regulate pain and inflammation.

Helichrysum umbraculigerum

Native to South Africa, it has a strong mood-stabilizing and anti-depressant effect due to a large amounts of cannabigerol (CBG), also found in the cannabis plant. International Cannabinoid Research Society has discover that cannabinoid-like compounds are made by plants, starting from an aromatic acid, which is different from the normal cannabinoid biosynthetic route. Helichrysum is used in African ritual ceremonies to make fumes with a potential psychotropic effect similar to other cannabinoids.

Sources:

1) http://herb.co/2016/03/29/non-marijuana-plants-contain-cannabinoids/

2) http://www.wakingtimes.com/2016/05/19/6-plants-other-than-cannabis-that-are-high-in-healing-cannabinoids/

3) http://www.canna-centers.com/cannabis-science

4) http://www.dietoflife.com/6-plants-cannabis-high-healing-cannabinoids/

5 Non-Marijuana Plants That Also Contain Healing Cannabinoids

12 Medicinal Plants Worth Your Garden Space & Grown Easily

Plants have been used for thousands of years for medicinal purposes. The medicinal plants including flower plants and herbs are easy to grow at home. They can treat a wide range of illnesses without any major side effects. It is very important to have medicinal plants around the house cause you never know when you might need them.

12 Medicinal Plants You Can Grow In Your Medicinal Garden

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.

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.

Aloe Vera

It can be gown under normal conditions because it just needs moist soil and sun exposure. It can cure burns, wounds, eczema, skin allergies naturally. Its juice useful for digestive problems and appetite.

Peppermint

Pepeprmint are naturally high in manganese, vitamin A and vitamin C. Its leaves help soothe and relax the muscles. Infused peppermint leaves are used to reduce irritable bower syndrome, against upset stomachs, inhibit bacterial growth and treat fevers

Echinacea

Medicinal herbs echinacea has the capacity to raise the body’s resistance to bacterial and viral infections by stimulating the immune system. It also has antibiotic properties that helps relieve allergies.

Basil

You must have used basil lot many times in food but have you ever tried it to heal flatulence? It has the power to treat cuts, lack of appetite, stomach gas and scrapes.

Calendula

It grows in almost any type of soil condition. It doesn’t matter whether soil is nutritionally poor, very acidic or very alkaline, just as long as it’s moist. It is useful in skin disease, bites, sore eyes, sprains, fevers and chronic infections.

Coriander

Coriander has many medicinal properties and is known for very good digestion. It has anti-diabetic and antibacterial properties, good for Anemia and menstrual irregularities.

Rosemary

Rosemary is the great reviver. This perennial woody herb stimulates energy and optimism and sharpens memory and concentration by bringing more oxygen to our brain.

Pot Marigold

It grows in almost any type of soil condition. It has no problem with nutritionally poor, very acidic or very alkaline soils, just as long as it’s moist. It is useful in skin problems, the deep-orange flowered pot marigold variety is applied externally to bites, stings, sprains, wounds, sore eyes and varicose veins.

Lavender

Lavender is well-known for its fragrance, it also has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. In ancient Greece, Rome and the Middle East, lavender was used as an antiseptic. It has also been used to treat anxiety, migraines, insomnia and depression.

Sage

Sage-infused tea is an effective herbal remedy to reverse greying of hair, reduce fever, and calm anxiety from brain and nervous disorders. It can also be used to treat gastric ailments, stress, treat infections of the mouth and throat.

Sources:

1) http://theselfsufficientliving.com/list-of-medicinal-plants-to-grow-in-your-garden/

2) http://nurserylive.com/32-medicinal-plants-to-keep-at-your-home-always

3) http://www.naturallivingideas.com/medicinal-herb-garden/

Read:

12 Medicinal Plants Worth Your Garden Space & Grown Easily

15 Natural Mosquito Repellent Plants

Mosquitoes are insects the world can do without. At least, that’s what many wish, myself included. However, these annoying disease-carrying pests play a part in the complex food web.

That said, one could do better by just using natural mosquito repellent plants rather than toxic chemical insecticides. Enjoy the outdoors (and even indoors) without the hassles of mosquitoes hovering around waiting for their chance to help themselves to your blood.

Have some of the plants in this list in your yard and in your home to keep those pesky mosquitoes away.

1.    Basil

A favorite herb for cooking, especially in Italian cuisine, basil is also perfect for warding off mosquitoes. Keep a pot of basil plant in your kitchen so you can cook in peace and have fresh basil leaves at your disposal.

2.    Bee balm

The bee balm is an ornamental plant that repels mosquitoes but attracts bees and even hummingbirds.

3.    Catnip

Catnip is ten times better than DEET in getting rid of mosquitoes. The only problem with catnip is that cats are attracted to it. So, place them in an area far from your precious garden plants so you won’t have your feline friends trampling all over them.

4.    Citronella Grass

Perhaps the most popular of all natural mosquito repellent plants, citronella grass produces an odor that mosquitoes hate. This is why citronella is the main ingredient of many anti-mosquito products.

5.    Garlic

Garlic has many uses aside from providing its distinct taste to many dishes. It has numerous medicinal uses and apparently keeps bloodthirsty vampires away, as well. The latter may just be a myth, but studies have shown that it does keep mosquitoes at bay.

6.    Geranium

This ornamental plant looks great when placed in a container and hung by the window. It is perfect indoors where it provides a beautiful sight while keeping the skeeters away.

7.    Lavender

Lavender is a popular garden plant not only for its aesthetic value, pleasant scent, and calming effects. It can also keep mosquitoes and other critters away.

8.    Lemon Balm

Like the rest of the mint family, lemon balm is effective against these skeeters. It is also useful in treating digestive problems, cramps, and PMS.

9.    Lemongrass

Lemongrass is similar to the citronella grass in looks. It also contains the ingredient citronella, making it an excellent way to keep the bloodsuckers at bay.

10. Lemon Thyme

Gather some lemon thyme leaves and crush them up before leaving them in places where mosquitoes like to gather. A study done by the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada discovered that mosquito bites are lessened by 62%, thanks to lemon thyme.

11. Marigolds

Pyrethrum, the substance that gives marigold its one-of-a-kind scent, is nature’s insecticide. Marigolds in your garden will make it not only pretty and but also bug-free.

12. Mint

Peppermint and other members of the mint family are not only known for their distinct taste and scent but also for their effectiveness against bugs, especially mosquitoes.

13. Pennyroyal

Pennyroyals make for a great ground cover in your garden. The purple flowers are beautiful to look at and attract butterflies. The plant also repels mosquitoes.

14. Rosemary

Like basil, rosemary is a favorite herb among cooking enthusiasts. Aside from keeping those pesky mosquitoes away, it’s also great for your memory.

15. Tea Tree

Tea tree oil is a popular essential oil used in many ways, including repelling mosquitoes. You can grow your own plant and use the leaves to make your own bug oil or spray.

Sources: The Spirit Science and Best Plants 

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15 Natural Mosquito Repellent Plants

Trial of GM plants to help fight heart ailment offered go-ahead

GM crops at Rothamsted Analysis Centre in Hertfordshire, which has permission to start a new area trial. Photograph: Dominic Lipinski/PA

Scientists have been provided permission to grow genetically modified plants that could aid protect against heart disease.

The Department for Atmosphere, Meals and Rural Affairs (Defra) has provided the go-ahead for the field trial of a crop of GM camelina plants, the seeds of which are modified to produce fish oils. The oils could supply feed for farmed fish, which means that fewer fish want to be caught from the sea, and eventually could be used in overall health dietary supplements or as an additive in foods such as margarine.

Scientists at Rothamsted Investigation Centre in Hertfordshire who will run the trial hailed the selection as a substantial milestone for study into genetically modified plants.

Fish oils, or omega-three long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, have been confirmed to be useful for human well being and to assist shield against coronary heart condition. It is also hoped the crop, if grown commercially in the future, may minimize the burden of in excess of-fishing. About 80% of the fish oil harvested from the oceans is fed to fish grown in farms.

Researchers invested ten years developing a sustainable way to produce the oil just before effectively expanding the engineered plants in lab problems. The trial was announced in January, but has been offered the go-ahead right after a public consultation.

Professor Johnathan Napier, lead scientist of the project, mentioned: “We have produced considerable progress above the final ten many years in designing and developing these plants and my colleagues and I are very satisfied that we can now check the overall performance of these plants in the field, below real-daily life situations.”

The specific oils that benefit the wellness of fish and humans, named EPA and DHA, are not in truth made by fish themselves but rather accumulated by eating marine microbes. Napier’s group took up to 7 genes from algae that produce the fish oils and transplanted them into oil seed plants referred to as camelina. It naturally creates short-chain oils and has been grown as a food crop for centuries in southern and eastern Europe and is utilized a biofuel crop in North America.

The investigation is component of a task to discover out how seeds could be enhanced to benefit the population’s wellness.

The experiment will start off by the middle of May possibly this year, with the plants harvested in August or September. Some seeds from the plants will be used for analysis, even though the rest will be destroyed beneath the situations of the consent.

The GM inspectorate of the Meals and Setting Analysis Company will be carrying out regular inspections.

Professor Martin Parry, acting director of Rothamsted Research, stated: “We are delighted to be in place to carry out the field trial and to additional assess the likely of these GM plants to contribute, as 1 of several solutions, to the crucial environmental sustainability issue of offering omega-three fish oils.”

The trial will be funded by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Analysis Council (BBSRC).

Professor Jackie Hunter, chief executive of the BBSRC, explained: “This study is looking for to provide an substitute supply of omega-3 oil for the aquaculture industry that is searching for new techniques to sustain and boost its sustainability.

“Following many years of BBSRC-supported laboratory study this venture has reached the stage exactly where only a field trial will show scientists if this could function in true-globe situations. I am pleased that the team are now in a place to proceed and will be interested in hearing their benefits.”

Emma Hockridge, head of policy for the Soil Association, which represents organic farmers, called the move a “waste of scarce public funds”.

She advised Farming United kingdom: “GM crops are generating farming less honest, more risky and no much more sustainable. As an alternative, we support useful science and innovation that addresses true wants, is genuinely sustainable and puts farmers in management of their livelihoods.”

Trial of GM plants to help fight heart ailment offered go-ahead