A sore throat can be very uncomfortable and, more than anything, you want it to go away before the symptoms start to get worse. The primary symptoms of a sore throat are pain and irritation, especially when swallowing. When the immune system encounters bacteria or viruses, it inflames the mucous membranes in the throat. 

What Causes A Sore Throat?

A sore throat involves scratchiness, pain, or irritation in the throat. It is usually attributed to a viral infection, such as a cold or flu, and it usually resolves on its own. Strep throat, however, is a less common type of sore throat that requires treatment with antibiotics to prevent serious complications. Typically, bacterial infections do not cause sore throats as much as viral infections do. 

This article details eight natural remedies that may help reduce pain associated with sore throat. Possible remedies include honey, lemon water, peppermint tea, herbs, and more. Continue reading to see which remedy is best for you. 

Apple Cider Vinegar

The Ancient Greek physician Hippocrates prescribed a combo of honey and apple cider vinegar, oxymel, to help treat flu symptoms, including sore throat. Apple cider vinegar is a natural health tonic that is a common ingredient in various alternative medicinal remedies. The active ingredient is acetic acid, which works to fight bacteria. Drink one cup of warm water mixed with one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. Don’t just take shots of apple cider vinegar, as that can lead to acid reflux. 

Gargle With Salt Water

Gargling with salt water is a classic remedy for relieving sore throat pain. The salt works to pull water out of the throat tissues, which may help reduce swelling. It may also help to kill harmful microbes in the throat. Combine one cup of warm water with one teaspoon of salt and stir to dissolve before gargling. Try to gargle for 30 seconds once per hour. 

Licorice Root

Licorice root exhibits similar properties to aspirin in that it may help reduce sore throat pain. It also offers antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. At this time, there isn’t a lot of research about how licorice root may relieve sore throat pain. One older study, however, found that gargling with licorice water before surgery reduced the risk of getting a sore throat by 50%, compared to gargling with standard sugar water. 

Ginger Tea

Ginger is an antibacterial and anti-inflammatory spice that works to soothe an upset stomach and relieve throat pain. Some laboratory studies found that ginger extract may kill certain viruses and bacteria that cause respiratory illnesses. Ginger may also reduce inflammation in tuberculosis patients. Although ginger tea is readily available in most grocery stores, you can easily make your own with boiling water, raw ginger root, a squeeze of lemon, and some honey for sweetness. 

Marshmallow Root

Throughout history, people have used extracts from the marshmallow plant to treat sore throats. The root contains mucilage, a gelatin-like substance that lubricates and coats the throat after you swallow it. According to research, lozenges containing marshmallow root were effective at soothing dry cough in animals. You can make marshmallow root-infused water by placing one ounce of marshmallow root in a cheesecloth inside a bottle with one liter of cold water. 

Honey

Typically used to sweeten herbal teas, honey may help soothe a sore throat on its own. Honey contains anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties that may help combat viruses or bacteria. It is especially effective when you combine it with warm water and apple cider vinegar. For the best results, opt for raw organic honey or Manuka honey, as those are the purest forms. 

Coconut Oil

What is this popular skin and hair care ingredient doing on a list of ingredients that help remedy sore throat? Well, some studies suggest that coconut oil may fight infection and reduce inflammation in exposed areas. Coconut oil works to lubricate mucous membranes in the throat, which may provide mild relief from irritation. Add a spoonful of coconut oil to hot tea, soup, or put a spoonful in your mouth and allow it to melt and coat the throat. 

Lemon Water

Not only is lemon water a refreshing beverage, but it may also reduce throat pain that occurs during a cold or flu. Lemons are naturally rich in vitamin C and other antioxidants, which work to fight inflammation and oxidative stress. Lemon also helps to increase the amount of saliva that the body produces, which can help keep the throat lubricated. Maximize the benefits of lemon water by combining lemon with warm water and a little honey.

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Everyone has their day in the sun during summer. Some people are less fortunate than others and go home looking like freshly boiled lobsters. You’ve seen that bright red skin that stands out from 100 feet away. Although sun exposure is beneficial, sunburn is not. When the skin is burnt to a bright red, you need immediate relief. The soothing sunburn ice cubes in this article can help promote faster healing and provide relief. 

As a quick note, it’s important for everyone to lather up with a skin-safe sunscreen when going out in the sun. If you plan to stay in the sun for long periods of time, make sure to seek shade when possible, hydrate all day long, and reapply sunscreen every couple hours. That may not seem like the most fun thing to remember, but it can help keep your skin safe. For when you let yourself cook a little longer in the direct sunlight and get burnt, you will need to soothe the skin immediately.

Sunburn Soothing Ice Cubes

There are many cooling sprays, after sun gels, lotions, and other natural remedies that can help soothe sunburns. They only last for so long in the fridge before they go bad, though. They are easy to make, but you still have to spend the time to prepare them. Why not have something that won’t go bad and is always cooling and soothing? 

Aloe vera is a great plant to have at your house. It is a low-maintenance succulent and the gel inside the plant has soothing properties that can help accelerate the recovery of sunburns. Researchers note that aloe vera contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe inflamed skin. 

Regarding the soothing ice cubes, many experts do not recommend placing ice on sunburns. The reason for this is because the cold acts as a vasoconstrictor, which reduces blood flow to the area and slows healing time. If you add vasodilating herbs to the ice cubes, though, they can help increase blood flow and solve that issue. Plus, you get the cooling relief from the frozen cubes. 

Comfrey

This plant stimulates tissue repair and works to help the body form healthy skin cells. It is also beneficial for sore joints and damaged skin. Studies have shown that comfrey can help soothe and heal damaged skin. And just like marshmallow root, which is also in these soothing sunburn cubes, comfrey is a demulcent that helps provide a protective barrier over tissues. 

Lavender

Lavender is an all-around soothing herb that is especially gentle on the skin. It lends itself to a variety of DIY skin care products, so a lot of DIY enthusiasts keep lavender essential oil on hand. Lavender may help disinfect wounds and cuts and acts as an analgesic to soothe pain. It is frequently applied to burns to help soothe the skin and promote faster healing. Lavender also helps to increase circulation to the skin, which accelerates recovery time. 

Calendula

Calendula is very similar to lavender, in that it is a great all-around herb. It is very gentle and great for all skin types. Many studies confirm that it can help soothe inflammation and reduce the severity of cuts, burns, sunburns, rashes, and cuts. Calendula may also help move lymphatic fluid and improve blood circulation.

Marshmallow

Slippery marshmallow works to coat and cool irritated skin, while simultaneously adding moisture. The roots, flowers, and leaves of marshmallow root all exhibit anti-inflammatory properties. You can use leaves and flowers for the cubes (below) or you can use the roots.

Peppermint

Peppermint has a natural cooling effect, making it a great addition to soothing sunburn cubes. The mint plant is also a vasodilator, which stimulates circulation and helps create a warming feeling. If you combine mint with cool or cold ingredients, it feels refreshing on the skin. 

Herbal Ice Cubes To Soothe Sunburns

Ingredients:

• 2 cups water 
• 1 tablespoon each: lavender flowers, comfrey leaf, peppermint leaf, marshmallow root, and calendula flowers
• 1/4 cup aloe vera gel

Instructions:

• Pour the water into a small pot over medium-high heat and bring to a boil. 
• Add the herbs to the pot, cover with a lid, and remove from heat. Allow the herbs to steam for 15 minutes. 
• Strain the herbs out, which will leave you with about one and three-quarter cups of tea. Put that herbal tea in the fridge to cool. 
• Once the herbal tea is no longer hot, add the aloe vera gel and stir to combine. Pour this mixture into ice cube trays and freeze. 
• Pop out an ice cube after coming home with a sunburn and apply it to the affected area. You can wrap the ice cube in a paper towel if you need to.

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Pregnancy affects everyone differently, and the same applies to postpartum life. Just as both of these stages in life can be intense, emotional, or easy, so can breastfeeding, especially in the first few days after giving birth. Breastfeeding is worth it and being able to nourish your baby with your own body is nothing short of miraculous. Making sure the baby has a good latch from the beginning can help mitigate the pain. That said, breastfeeding is not a completely painless process, despite what you read. 

Go on any baby registry or talk to any mom or mom-to-be, and they will tell you that nipple cream is a must-have item. When you are in the trenches of learning to breastfeed, nipples can become irritated and sore. Some lactation experts recommend lanolin cream, but that doesn’t work if you are allergic to lanolin. 

What Is Lanolin?

Lanolin is the oil that is extracted from sheep’s wool. It undergoes a process to create finished lanolin, which is only problematic if you have a wool allergy. You also have to worry about potential pesticide residue found in wool. This can build up in fatty tissue or in breast milk if you apply it to your nipples. 

The reason for that is because a lot of sheep are sprayed with pesticides, which treat mites and various pests. Additionally, most sheep consume non-organic and GMO feed, traces of which are sometimes found in wool. Organic lanolin from healthy sheep exists, but it is hard to find. There are conflicting opinions and sources about the safety of lanolin, though. If you want to avoid the risk and be a little more careful with your little one’s first food, you may want a natural nipple cream.

Natural Nipple Cream

If you want to have an easier time with those first few days or weeks of nursing, you are going to need a soothing nipple cream. Because there are various natural nipple creams on the market, there is no need to make a DIY version. If you want to make your own because you want the assurance of knowing exactly what goes into the cream, this article provides an excellent DIY version. 

The baby may ingest some of the cream while nursing, so the goal is to use all-natural, safe ingredients for newborns. The ingredients in this cream have a low chance of allergic reaction. You’ll notice that it doesn’t contain almond oil, beeswax, or coconut oil, despite how beneficial those ingredients are to the skin. This is because they have a small chance of allergic reaction. This recipe is also free of essential oils for similar reasons, and because of their intensity. 

The Consistency

This nipple cream has a consistency that is more akin to a soft salve, but it is incredibly easy to apply. Should you desire a firmer cream, increase the amount of cocoa butter to one-third cup or more. You can also add some beeswax to thicken it, but there is a small chance that the baby could have an allergic reaction. Some evidence indicates that pesticides in inorganic beeswax may cause beeswax allergies. 

DIY Nipple Cream

Ingredients For Infused Oil:

• 1 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup chamomile flowers
• 1/4 cup calendula flowers
• 2 tablespoons marshmallow root
• Ingredients For Nipple Cream:
• 1/4 cup infused oil
• 1/4 cup cocoa butter

Instructions:

• You can make the infused oil one of three ways. The easiest way (provided you have time) is the solar method. 
• Add all of the ingredients to a pint-size mason jar, place in the sun, and shake daily for two to four weeks. Once the infusion is complete, use a metal strainer lined with a cheesecloth to strain the herbs. 
• The quicker method is to fill a small saucepan with an inch or two of water and place it over low heat. Add all of the ingredients to a mason jar and place the jar in the saucepan.
• Allow the ingredients to melt and stir every so often once melted. Make sure to replenish the water if it evaporates too much. 
• Once the infusion is complete, use a metal strainer lined with cheesecloth to strain out the herbs. 
• Once you have the infused oil, you can make the nipple cream. Add 1/4 cup of the infused oil and cocoa butter to a heat-safe glass jar and fill a small saucepan with an inch or two of water. Place the saucepan over low heat and place the glass jar in the saucepan. 
• Stir the oil and cocoa butter until melted. Remove from heat and pour the mixture into a heat-safe glass jar or tin. Allow to cool at room temperature and then use when needed. 
• Keep the balm in a cool, dry place.

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If you’re plagued by digestive issues like upset stomach or constipation, you may resort to over-the-counter medications laxatives for relief. Have you ever considered a soothing cup of tea to help improve digestion? For centuries, people across cultures have relied on different teas to improve gut health and aid digestion. In fact, multiple research studies report that various teas can aid with regular bowel movements, immune function, and soothing an upset stomach. 

How Do Teas Support Digestion?

First and foremost, drinking tea helps to hydrate the body, and a well-hydrated body reduces the likelihood of constipation. The water from tea passes through the body and bulks up your stool, while also keeping it soft for easy elimination. Secondly, specific teas offer nutrients like antioxidants, polyphenols, and other herbal compounds that optimize digestive enzymes. The polyphenols in different teas act like prebiotics, which feed healthy bacteria that live inside your gut. Increasing the amount of healthy bacteria in the body can not only support digestion, but also aid with weight management. Continue reading to learn which teas you should drink to help support digestion.

Chamomile

Chamomile tea is an excellent pre-bedtime tea because it helps to relax the mind and body. Containing probiotics, chamomile tea may help feed gut bacteria and reduce constipation. Historically, this tea has been used to relieve indigestion, nausea, motion sickness, vomiting, sluggish digestion, and stomach pain. Chamomile is a natural relaxant, which is why researchers state that it can help calm tense muscles in the digestive tract. 

Gentian Root

Coming from the Gentianaceae family of flowering plants, gentian root grows around the world. For centuries, many cultures have used different varieties of gentian root to help treat stomach ailments. Gentian root contains bitter compounds, iridoids, which help increase the production of digestive enzymes and acids. One study of 38 healthy adults found that drinking water mixed with gentian root increased blood flow to the digestive system. Improving blood flow to the digestive system can help improve digestive function. 

Dandelion 

Dandelions are the unwelcome weeds that grow through cement cracks and ruin the appearance of your lawn. They have yellow flowers and grow around the world, and even though they are weeds, they contain several beneficial compounds. According to several animal studies, dandelion extract may stimulate muscle contractions, which enhances blood flow from the stomach to the small intestine. A study in rats found that dandelion extract helped protect against ulcers by decreasing stomach acid production and inflammation. 

Marshmallow Root

The polysaccharides from marshmallow root, like mucilage, work to enhance the production of mucus-producing cells that line the digestive tract. Additionally, marshmallow root exhibits antioxidant properties that decrease levels of histamine, a compound that the body releases during inflammation. This is why marshmallow root may help protect against stomach ulcers. An animal study found that marshmallow root was very effective at preventing stomach ulcers, more so than non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS). More human research is necessary to determine if the tea has the same effect on human digestive tracts. 

Ginger

Ginger is a flowering plant native to Asia, but the rhizome (underground part of the stem) is popular in culinary applications. Compounds in ginger, including shogaols and gingerols, may help stimulate stomach contractions and emptying. As a result, ginger may help alleviate nausea, cramping, gas, bloating, and indigestion. A small study involved 11 participants with indigestion that took 1.2 grams of ginger. The researchers noted that taking this amount shortened stomach emptying time by nearly four minutes, compared to a placebo. A large review found that taking 1.5 grams of ginger every day reduced vomiting caused by pregnancy, motion sickness, and chemotherapy. 

Peppermint

Known for its refreshing flavor and ability to soothe an upset stomach, peppermint tea helps to improve digestive issues. A four-week study in 57 people with IBS found that 75% of those who took peppermint oil capsules twice daily reported improved symptoms. Those in the placebo group only experienced a 38% improvement in IBS symptoms. Peppermint tea may provide the same benefits as peppermint oil, but the tea’s effects on human digestion haven’t been studied extensively. As for now, the research on peppermint oil states that it may improve the symptoms of inflammatory bowel disorders, which can cause bloating, stomach pain, gas, and other unpleasant symptoms.

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It may not be cold and flu season, but it’s always beneficial to know how to get rid of a sore throat. Springtime is a popular time of year to experience allergies or general infections, and there’s nothing fun about either scenario. Both tend to result in that scratchy discomfort that you know will lead to unpleasant, sickly feelings. 

Although you may not be able to cure your sore throat overnight, drinking certain herbal teas can accelerate your recovery. Licorice root, slippery elm, peppermint, and more teas may reduce throat swelling and mucus production. Warm teas like these help the throat open and relax, opening the door for healing to begin. While iced beverages may seem better and more refreshing, hot liquids are best for soothing a sore throat. Several studies found that iced beverages can cause throat spasms, which cause more irritation. 

There are many warm brews that will support and soothe a sore throat. We don’t have all of them detailed in this article, but we tried to round up the best ones. Keep reading to learn which teas are most effective at soothing a sore throat. 

Ginger Tea

Ginger root is a powerful anti-inflammatory herb that can help soothe indigestion and sore throat. The gingerols and shogoals in ginger exhibit pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties, which work to reduce irritation. Several scientific studies say that ginger may exhibit antimicrobial properties that fight viral infections that cause sore throats. Many of the studies on ginger, though, use ginger extract, which may have a higher dose of antiviral properties than regular ginger tea. More research is necessary to determine if ginger tea has the same effects. 

Licorice Root Tea

There is some research indicating licorice root’s ability to eliminate phlegm and mucus. It may also act as a coating agent, helping to soothe a sore throat. Researchers identified three important substances in licorice root that may relieve sore throat pain: liquilitin, liquiritigenin, and glycyrrhizin. Both liquilitin and liquiritigenin are expectorants, which work to loosen mucus so you can cough it up more easily. Glycyrrhizin acts as a demulcent, which provides the protective coating over the throat, preventing irritation when you swallow. 

Peppermint Tea

Dealing with a scratchy throat and a nasty cough? Bust out the peppermint tea because it is one of the best teas for soothing a sore throat. The menthol in peppermint exhibits antiviral and antibacterial properties. One study found that it has an antitussive effect, meaning it may have the ability to relieve a cough. More research on this is necessary, though. Other benefits of drinking peppermint tea include relieving upset stomach and cleaning out sinuses. 

Marshmallow Root Tea

No, this tea has nothing to do with s’mores, nor does it taste like roasted marshmallows. Marshmallow root tea is great for loosening mucus in the throat, meaning you can cough it up more easily. That may relieve a dry cough so you experience less pain in the throat. A 2018 study surveyed people who took marshmallow root syrup or lozenges to treat a cough. Within 10 minutes, most of the people reported that their throats felt much better and had a reduced urge to cough. 

Green Tea

Although many people drink green tea for the caffeine, it does have powerful antioxidants that help enhance immune function. Many of the anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties come from epigallocatechin-3-gallate. This compound works to reduce inflammatory proteins in the body, accelerating the healing process. Sore throats tend to result from an inflamed pharynx, which can make swallowing a more painful experience. In order to reap the benefits of green tea, you can either drink it or you can gargle with it. If you choose to gargle green tea, please do so for 30 seconds at a time. Make sure the tea is warm, not hot, so that you don’t burn your mouth when you gargle. 

Slippery Elm Tea

Just like licorice root, slippery elm has demulcent properties that provide a protective coating on the throat. The plant’s mucilage contains antioxidants that work to provide soothing properties to calm irritation. In addition to relieving sore throat pain, slippery elm may also soothe an upset stomach. If you experience indigestion, upset stomach, or need relief from coughing, brew a cup of slippery elm tea and drink it until symptoms subside. 

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When you restore and nourish your gut, you may notice that bloating, brain fog, cramps, skin rashes, and hormonal imbalances go away. All of those symptoms are common when a person experiences leaky gut syndrome, which is more common today than ever before. The digestive system cannot properly process the harsh foods in the Western Diet. Because of this, harmful substances or undigested particles permeate through the intestinal walls and into the bloodstream. That’s not good news, in case anyone was wondering.

What Is Leaky Gut?

When particles enter the bloodstream from your digestive system, the body experiences system-wide inflammation. This triggers an immune response all over the body, and failure to address this can lead to food sensitivities, arthritis, IBS, skin issues, and more. Some people don’t think that this can happen, but research proves otherwise. According to several research studies, leaky gut is responsible for many health conditions outside of those that occur in the gut. The gut and immune system are closely connected and making subtle changes can improve overall bodily health, not just digestion.

A dietary change is the best first step you can take when it comes to repairing the gut. It can take time to help remedy the damage, but it is possible to see results. In addition to changing the diet, though, many supplements and herbs can lend a helping hand. If you have leaky gut syndrome, consider the following supplements to improve overall wellness. 

Quercetin

Quercetin is a plant pigment, also known as a flavonoid, that exists in many plants and foods. It is readily available in onions, buckwheat tea, ginkgo biloba, St. John’s wort, green tea, and American elder. According to research, quercetin works to enhance the function of the intestinal barrier, which can help prevent leakage. It also works to reduce inflammation and boost immune function.

Marshmallow Root

The reason that health experts recommend marshmallow root for people with leaky gut is because it has a high mucilage content. That helps to cover your digestive tract in a protective lining, and it also works to support the gut’s reaction to inflammation. When you combine marshmallow root with ginger, you can help protect yourself against stomach ulcers. Lastly, marshmallow root exhibits an ability to restore the integrity of tight junctions in the intestinal wall.

L-Glutamine

L-glutamine is an essential amino acid that has natural anti-inflammatory properties. Cells that line the intestines use glutamine as fuel to keep them healthy and well. Researchers believe that taking L-glutamine supplements may help repair the intestinal wall and help those with leaky gut. Additionally, glutamine levels drop when people experience too much stress, which can make people with leaky gut vulnerable. That’s another reason to take L-glutamine.

Turmeric

Curcumin, which is the active compound in turmeric, has a proven history of benefitting the body in more ways than one. It exhibits anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-viral properties. It works to boost memory and reduce inflammation in joints and the gut. Curcumin can also improve the function and lining of the intestinal wall. It works to contract the proteins of the intestinal lining, which ultimately squeezes cells closer together. To help repair leaky gut, it’s best to take 10 grams of turmeric per day.

Probiotics

You can’t go anywhere these days without hearing about probiotics. That is because they are that beneficial for your health. If the bacteria in your gut are not beneficial, you run the risk of intestinal permeability. This makes it impossible to heal from leaky gut. Certain probiotic strains work to improve immune function and assist with balancing hormones. One study found that gut permeability decreased in people who supplemented with probiotics. Probiotics are friendly bacteria that you introduce to your gut. They can help your microbiome thrive! When you purchase probiotics, please do research or ask your health care professional for recommendations. The strains do different things, but you also need diversity to create a healthy microbiome. 

Slippery Elm

One of the great things about slippery elm is that it works to increase mucilage content in the digestive tract. It’s similar to marshmallow root in that regard. It also stimulates nerve endings to boost mucus recreation, which counteracts any excessive acidity that exists in the gut. That’s why many people who develop ulcers benefit from taking this herb. Finally, slippery elm provides essential antioxidants to the gut, making it a great addition to your leaky gut diet.

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If you experience difficulty breathing or need extra support for the lungs and respiratory system, this tea is an excellent option. It is great for coughs or congestion, but it can also help relieve shortness of breath. Drink it to believe it! You also have to experiment with the measurements of the different herbs. We have detailed the ratios in the ingredient list. You can brew as little or as much as you like.

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From marshmallow root to lobelia and wood betony to woad, there are hundreds of herbs, flowers, and plants that possess powerful medicinal properties. A common and seemingly useless herb to the untrained eye may have antiseptic, antibacterial, expectorant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Other herbs may help to promote detoxification or even work to repel insects.

The world of herbal medicine continues to expand with each new study of the hundreds of herbs in existence. Constant research on herbal medicine intends to examine their abilities to benefit the different organs, systems, muscles, or bones in the body. We may never be able to fully catalog all of the benefits from plants that exist around the world. While some herbs are more difficult to procure, research indicates that most people have access to these medicinal herbs and fail to take advantage of their benefits. After reading about the benefits of the following plants, you may want to rethink your stance about using herbs as medicine.

Feverfew

Also known as “featherfew” or “wild chamomile,” feverfew has been used in European folk medicine for centuries. The leaves and extracts from the plant contain parthenolide, a compound that may help reduce inflammation, prevent blood vessel constriction in the brain, and ease muscle spasms. A few studies have concluded that parthenolide may also work to reduce migraines, minor headaches, and vomiting. The health properties in feverfew may inhibit the release of inflammatory substances that contribute to migraines or menstrual cramps. It can be brewed into a tea or made into a tincture.

Marshmallow Root

Unfortunately, marshmallow root does not grow marshmallows, but it has been a potent herbal remedy for centuries. Due to the mucilaginous content of marshmallow root, many cultures have used it to help remedy coughs or colds. Several studies have found that it acts an enzyme to help loosen mucous and inhibit bacterial growth. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties of marshmallow root may help to relieve eczema, dermatitis, and enhance the overall appearance of the skin.

Dittany of Crete

Native to the island of Crete in Greece, dittany has long since been considered to be panacea, meaning it has been used as a solution for various illnesses. The presence of phenol carvacrol, in addition to the antibacterial, antifungal, and antimicrobial properties, makes dittany excellent for soothing sore throats, stomach pains, menstrual cramps, and even hypertension. People who want to strengthen heart muscles and clear out arteries will benefit from brewing this herb into a tea. It is enhanced when mixed with raw honey and cinnamon, especially to relieve coughing.

Anise Hyssop

Anise hyssop is a perennial herb from the mint family, growing tall with woody flowers that are often lavender, pink, or white in color. It has commonly been used as a cough and cold remedy, due to its ability to loosen mucous, decongest, and reduce the symptoms of sinus infections. Native Americans used to drink anise hyssop tea to improve digestive health and get rid of diarrhea. Alternatively, anise hyssop leaves can be crushed up to make a salve because the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties can accelerate wound healing or soothe sunburns.

Wild Asparagus Root

Wild asparagus root isn’t your average asparagus plant that grows in the garden. It’s a wild asparagus that has been used in both spiritual and physical healing practices. It has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for over 2,000 years, often revered by Tibetan people for its ability to keep the skin looking young, supple, and healthy. The Chinese often say that “wisdom comes from the lungs,” and wild asparagus root has commonly been made into gentle tonics to help cleanse the respiratory system of toxins. Additionally, Taoists have used wild asparagus root to relax the mind to promote healthy sleep, and these same relaxing properties have been purported to increase levels of happiness and joy.

Saffron

Due to the intense labor that is involved with harvesting saffron, it is considered one of the most expensive spices in the world. All of the harvesting is done by hand and it takes about 75,000 saffron blossoms to yield a single pound of saffron. Containing more than 150 volatile compounds, including safranal, antioxidants, biochemicals, carotenoids, and crocin, saffron can help to protect heart health, increase metabolism and blood circulation, and improve bone strength and nerve function. It also has analgesic properties, which may work to reduce pain, stress, and anxiety.

Rue

Ruta graveolens, commonly referred to as rue, is a garden plant that has been used as an insect repellent and for its medicinal properties. Rue is praised for the alkaloids and anti-inflammatory & antihistamine properties, and it contains a compound known as rutin, which works to prevent oxidative stress. The antifungal properties of rue have been proven to clear up skin, decrease premature signs of aging, and improve overall complexion. If you put rue extract in a diffuser, it helps to ward off cockroaches, mosquitos, and other insects.

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