To improve the overall health of the body, herbs have been playing a major role since decades;  they help in healing wounds faster, make up for your nutritional supplements and also deliver a host of benefits that are discussed in this article. Herbs strengthen the immune system, lower blood sugar and cholesterol; they have anti-inflammatory properties, and prevent Alzheimer’s diseases and cancers. Herbs demolish the nutritional deficiencies in your body and thus restore the uprightness of the body. Herbs rectify problems rather than suppressing them. It is said that herbs nourish every part of the body with their vitamin and mineral content. In short, our body needs certain essential dietary nutrients to meet the everyday demands of life; herbs provide us with most of these necessities. Herbs are normally used as flavoring additives to our dishes; apart from that herbs are now an integral part of various medicines in most countries. Many herbal extracts like those of mint, licorice, fenugreek, ginkgo, aloe vera, etc., are used in medicines. The health benefits of herbs vary with its type; for instance ‘Artichoke’ cures different kinds of digestive problems, whereas ‘American Ginseng’ works as a health tonic and ‘Rosemary’ promotes healthy brain function. Almost all herbs have some health benefit or the other; however you can consume herbs for its comprehensive profits with the recommendation of a medical practitioner.

What are Herbs?

The plant that is prized for its scent, flavor, medicinal or other assets is known as an ‘herb’. Herbs are usually used in delicacies, for making medicines, for pest control and also for spiritual purposes. Since immemorial, the culinary and medicinal values of different herbs have been appreciated by almost every part of the world and amongst all cultures. Herbs can be classified into innumerable categories as per their scientific family and genus, but here we discuss about the two popular categories, namely Chinese herbs and medicinal herbs.

• Chinese herbs: In China, the uncountable health benefits of herbs have been attributed for centuries through their well-recognized medicinal systems. In fact, they were considered to be the most powerful treatment method in ancient times and many people from different countries relied on Chinese herbs alone to cure any disease. In those days, often herbs were associated with miracles and magic. Chinese herbal medicine dates over thousands of years, approximately during the rule of the Han dynasty. According to this system, Chinese herbs can be categorized into five main tastes. Spicy herbs treat colds and respiratory problems effectively and also improve blood circulation; while sweet herbs improve the functioning of the spleen. Sweet ones also relieve pain and boost body's natural immunity. The bitter herbs aided the heart system and treated constipation, and asthma. The sour herbs treated liver disorders and helped in digestion process. Salty herbs promoted the health of kidneys. Other than these mentioned ones, some bland herbs were also there to take care of the healing properties.
• Medicinal herbs: Medicinal herbs treated most of the health ailment when there was no usage of intricate medicinal instruments and drugs. These herbs that worked wonders with their juices, extracts, barks, leaves, flowers and sometimes the entire plant. These herbs have been popularly known as medicinal herbs and their utilities were passed on through generations. However, before using any herb for medical reasons it is essential to know about the plant referring to accurate literature. For instance, comfrey was used as an anti-inflammatory agent in treating bruises, sprains, and other wounds, bladderwrack herb is a good source of iodine and was used in many medications for thyroid conditions, aloe vera herb was used for minor burns, kava kava herb treated depression and anxiety, milk thistle treated a host of liver diseases and so on.

What are Herbal Combinations?

You must have heard the term ‘herbal combinations’. These are combinations of different medicinal herbs that work better together than they do singly. These specific combinations are made considering the different aspects and phases of health need. They are powerful nutritional agents with the goodness of many herbs together and assure a healthy body condition faster as compared to a single herb treatment at a time. Some herbal combinations are made for specific ailments like hypertension, insomnia, blood pressure, gastritis etc. while others deal with general wellbeing like energy production, skin care, healthy brain functioning, weight control etc. For example, a combination of neem and turmeric can wade off many skin infections.  Herbal combinations should not be made a habit, but follow only till the prescribed time.

How do herbs help us?

Given below are some general benefits of herbs. This is just an indicative list.

Strengthen the immune system: Herbs are rich in many essential oils, anti-oxidants, phyto-sterols, vitamins, and many other nutrient substances that equip your body to fight against toxins, germs, and boosts up the immune system. In fact, you can call herbs as medicines in small dosages. Some of these immune boosting herbs are elderberry, garlic, ginger, onion, hibiscus, cinnamon, goldenseal etc.

Have anti-inflammatory properties: The essential oils present in some of the herbs (e.g. – ginger root) have excellent anti-inflammatory properties. Some of the herbs inhibit the enzyme cycloxygenase (COX), which facilitates inflammatory reactions in your body. This is the reason why herbs are excellent natural remedies for inflammatory health issues such as osteo-arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory bowel ailments like ulcerative colitis.

Reduce blood sugar levels and cholesterol: Some of the herbs have positive effects on the pancreas, thereby balancing blood sugar levels. Herbs have reportedly controlled many cases of Type I or Type II diabetes. For instance, fenugreek, bilberry and cayenne pepper extracts are said to be a good blood sugar stabilizing herbs. Herbs like psyllium, fenugreek and licorice can bring noteworthy reduction cholesterol and in blood pressure levels, thereby preventing coronary ailments.

Prevent Alzheimer’s disease: Many herbs have antioxidants and properties like anti-amyloid and anti-inflammatory. These effectively prevent Alzheimer’s disease. In Europe, the herb Ginkgo has been used widely to treat Alzheimer’s disease and also other forms of dementia.

Prevent cancer: Since ancient times, especially in Chinese medicine herbs were extensively used for treating cancer symptoms. In fact, herbs also help to soothe the after effects of chemotherapy. Researchers at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center have shown through studies that gastric, hepatoma, colon, and breast cancer cells can be effectively destroyed by many medicinal herbs like oldenlandia, scutellaria, taraxacum, and phragmites. The herbs purify blood and prevent cell mutations that usually lead to cancerous growths. The volatile oils derived from certain herbs emit cytotoxicity action against pancreatic, prostate, endometrial, and colon cancer cells. However, selection of herbs to cure cancer should be strictly done under the supervision of a medical practitioner.

Skin care: Since ages, herbs have shown significant benefits in natural skin care. Amongst the innumerable herbs found all over the globe, some common herbs like neem, turmeric, aloe vera and holy basil assures you radiant and healthy skin. If you mix the powered form of holy basil, neem, mint leaves and a pinch of turmeric powder, it fades the dark spots on the face eventually. Chamomile oil when applied topically helps to repair the damaged skin tissues. Tea Tree oil is a great herbal extract used for face washes and creams, especially for oily skin, as it has the properties of controlling the oil secretion from the pores. Aloe vera is extensively used in manufacturing skin products, as this herb gives a smooth and youthful touch to your skin. Basil leaves are also an important ingredient for skin cosmetics, particularly in India.

Hair care: Alike skin care, hair care has also become a prevalent practice through herbal applications. Massaging your hair with jojoba oil gives a bountiful growth to your hair. There are many more herbs like gotu kula, horsetail, ginseng, marigold extract, etc., that stimulate hair growth. If you use cooled chamomile tea as hair toner, it will give you natural blonde hair color effect. With lemon juice application you can enhance the color effect. Aloe vera juice or oil regenerates hair cells, thereby repairing damages and also soothes the scalp with a cooling effect. Fenugreek enhances blood circulation to the hair roots. Ivy burdock cleanses hair perfectly and also cures scalp problems.

Dental care: Herbal toothpastes are now widely available in the market; they ensure a perfect set of teeth and gums for you without any side effects, after a prolonged usage. Some tooth cleaners in the market contain harsh abrasive, whitener, detergent, and bleach that can cause harm to your teeth in the long run. Thus, opting herbal methods is sure to be a wise choice for natural dental care. There are numerous herbs that when used directly on teeth and gums give wonderful and quick results. For instance, rubbing sage leaves over the teeth and gums clean them instantly and make the texture smooth. If the teeth stains trouble you, rub alpine strawberry over the teeth. Bad breath can now be easily eradicated by using lavender water, fresh parsley or mint tea as mouthwash. For toothaches, clove oil is probably the most effective and readily available medicine. For healthy mouth and gums, herbs like alpine strawberry, lavender, thyme, sage, neem, fennel, parsley, aloe vera, and mint are found to be very effective and are widely used to manufacture herbal toothpastes, mouthwashes and tooth whiteners.

Herbs have overall benefits for your body – the healing properties of herbs vary, but usually most of them are carminative (cures gastric issues), diaphoretic (controls water retention), lipolytic (helps in weight loss), anti-spasmodic, analgesic (relieve pain), deodorant, aphrodisiac (increases sexual drive), antiseptic, digestive, and stimulant when taken in correct dosage.

Herbs and their benefits:

There are countless herbs grown all across the globe. We have enlisted some of the important herbs and their benefits below:

Aloe Vera: Aloe Vera is a stemless or sometimes very short-stemmed plant that grows upto 80-100 cm and spreads root sprouts. The leaves are thick and fleshy, green with a ragged margin. Aloe vera is a popular medicinal herb (with healing components mannans, anthraquinones, polysaccharides, and lectins) growing in arid climates. This herb efficiently heals wound and burns. Moreover, drinking aloe vera juice is highly recommended for diabetes, minor skin infections, cysts, and elevated blood lipids. Aloe vera extract is an important skin care agent.

Dill: This herb is an excellent source of niacin, dietary fiber, zinc, copper, and phosphorus; it has a host of vitamins like vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin B6, riboflavin, folate, and minerals like iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and manganese. The herb helps in dealing effectively with issues like indigestion, diarrhea, insomnia, dysentery, hiccups, respiratory disorders, menstrual disorders, cancer and so on. This herb contains ‘Eugenol’ – the volatile oil that has potent antiseptic and anesthetic powers. Dill also helps in breast milk generation and increases sperm count.

Chives: Chives belong to the onion family and are the smallest sized onions. These are enriched with vitamin A, C and K and B vitamins like Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, Pantothenic Acid, other minerals like Phosphorus, Magnesium, Folate, Potassium, Calcium, Iron, Copper, Manganese and Zinc and dietary fibre. Chives help in proper digestion and also stimulate appetite. Moreover, it also helps to digest fatty foods, improves respiratory system, and prevents obesity by fluid retention. Chives help to keep cancers away, especially prostate cancer. It aids in alleviating fatigue issues, it has mild anti-inflammatory properties and also kills germs in the intestines and colon.

Holy Basil (Tulasi): Holy Basil leaves are probably one of the most ancient herbs used for medicinal purposes. Holy basil leaves are rich in protein, riboflavin, folate, niacin, calcium, magnesium, iron, potassium, phosphorus, copper and zinc. Holy Basil is affluent in vitamin E, A, C, K, and B6, and dietary fibre. The holy basil leaves aid in curing fevers (especially dengue and malaria) quickly. Since ancient times, tulsi leaves are added to tea, honey or warm water to cure cold, coughs, sore throat, and respiratory disorders. Holy Basil leaves have anti-inflammatory properties and is also effective in case of kidney stones, cardiovascular diseases, insect bites, skin infections, dental and eye problems. This herb has a special spiritual reverence in India.

Rosemary: Rosemary is a very good source of dietary fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, folate, calcium, iron and manganese and a good source of vitamin B6, magnesium, potassium and copper. Rosemary herb has numerous health benefits like stimulating nervous system, improving memory, relieving muscle pain, aiding in digestion, and eliminating circulatory problems, rheumatism, spasms, neuralgia, pain, eczema, wounds, and depression. Rosemary also increases urine production. Another fact about rosemary is that used in combination with St. John’s Wort and ginkgo biloba to cure brain inflammation. It is effective in treating migraines and other variations of headaches. Rosemary oil is useful for proper digestion, skin and hair care.

Lavender: This herb is a symbol of purity and cleanliness. Lavender also speeds healing, relieves muscle tension, reduces stress, improves circulatory system, immune system, and nervous system. Lavender oil is a great antiseptic, carminative (relieves flatulence) and spasmolytic (relieves muscle spasms). The medicinal properties of this herb include anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, and antiseptic. Nowadays, many stores sell lavender scent for perfumes, diffusers, soaps, talc and other cosmetics.

Peppermint: Peppermint is rich in phosphorus, niacin, potassium, copper, magnesium, manganese, riboflavin, folate, calcium, iron, zinc, and is a rich source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and dietary fiber. Peppermint is a good stomach calmer, especially if you are suffering from digestive problems, flatulence or any related problems, mint herb is the best natural remedy for you. Mint restricts the bacterial and fungal growth; and helps in relieving from allergies and asthma. Many researchers say that mint also shows positive effects in cancer treatment, however further citations are required to prove this. Mint juice is said to cure irritable bowel syndrome, thereby keeping away constipation and colon ailments. The market has abundant of mint flavored toothpastes, juices, chewing gums, squashes, ice tea, ice creams, and even medicines like laxatives, digestive syrups and so on.

Fenugreek: Fenugreek seeds are often used as spices and the leaves of the plant are used as herb. It is rich in protein, copper, magnesium, manganese, iron and dietary fiber. Apart from the seeds, the other parts of the fenugreek plant also have medicinal value. Intake of fenugreek balances cholesterol levels, treats diabetes and lowers blood sugar. The fenugreek seeds have lots of mucilage that sooths gastrointestinal inflammation by enveloping the stomach and intestine linings. This herb cures inflammations and thereby a home remedy for boils, abscesses, eczema, burns, and gout. Fenugreek is often recommended for pregnant women as it aids in child birth and milk production while lactating. However, this herb also has some side effects relating to gastrointestinal discomfort, thus it is advisable to consult a doctor before starting any supplementary tablets. Moderate amounts fenugreek herb or seeds in diet will not have any such effects.

Psyllium: Psyllium is also known as ispaghula (‘Isabgol’ in India). This is usually found in husk form from the seeds of Plantago ovate herb. Rich in soluble dietary fiber, psyllium is usually the major ingredient in many commonly used bulk laxatives. This herb usually helps to cope with constipation problems and intestinal ulcers, cleans the colon, and helps to control cholesterol, weight and blood pressure. However, if you are having problems like diabetes or if you are pregnant, consult a doctor before consuming psyllium.

Cayenne Pepper: Cayenne pepper is rich in niacin, riboflavin, magnesium, iron, potassium, manganese, vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin B6, vitamin K, and dietary fiber. Cayenne pepper is best known for its beneficiary properties for human circulatory system. This herb helps in keeping the blood warm and equalizes the blood pressure in venous and arterial system – both of which are necessities for a healthy circulatory system. This herb also helps in alleviating allergies and muscle cramps; it helps to improve digestion and also heals wounds effectively. This herb works effectively in weight reduction and thus many dieticians recommend cayenne pepper for healthy and trim body.

Guggul: Guggul is a flowering plant widely used as medicinal herb. It helps in weight management, relieves arthritis pain and menstrual pain, improves circulation, lowers cholesterol and alleviates skin problems. This herb also increases white blood cell counts; and also protects against common ailments like common cold, skin, dental and eye infection.

Hawthorn berry: Hawthorn berry is a prized herb for the heart and cardiovascular system. It can dilate the coronary arteries and enhance the blood and oxygen streaming to the heart muscle. This herb also dilates the blood vessels all over the body so that blood circulation does not exert much pressure on the heart. It has antioxidant properties, thus preventing the possibilities of atherosclerosis. It regulates blood pressure, treats angina, and corrects arrhythmia (irregular heart beat). Excessive doses of hawthorn can have side effects, thus it’s better to consult the doctor before starting with this medication.

Ginkgo: This herb is derived from the oldest living tree species, known as ginkgo biloba. Ginkgo has immense health benefits due to its rich content of vitamin C and niacin. It helps in improving memory and mental clarity – this herb is a popular ingredient in most of the brain tonics. It is used to treat Alzheimer's disease in elderly patients. This herb has also shown positive effects in treating tinnitus, vertigo, and other circulatory disorders. Ginkgo is also helpful in combating stress and poor nutrition that can lead to cardiovascular disease, brain damage, hearing disorders, and other inciting diseases. It reduces anxiety, tension, and fights allergic reactions in the body. Ginkgo biloba is a great natural medicine for cholesterol, diabetes, hemorrhoids and asthma.

Butcher’s broom: The root and stem of butcher’s broom is particularly used for herbal medicines. It improves circulation, relieves constipation, enhances blood flow to the important parts of the body like brain and limbs, and cures hemorrhoids. Butcher’s broom soothes the pain of rheumatism and arthritis, swelling, cramps, and other symptoms related to chronic venous insufficiency and so on. This herb is also used as a mild diuretic and laxative.

Winter Cherry (Ashwagandha): Winter cherry is a well-known herb used as a diuretic, aphrodisiac, sedative, revitalizing tonic, anti-inflammatory agent, and immune stimulator. It helps to reduce swellings and aids in retaining blood supply in the body; moreover it aids in proper functioning of the nervous system. It improves concentration, sexual abilities and asthmatic conditions.

Bacopa Monnieri (Brahmi): Like Tulsi, Bacopa is also an another ancient herb used in medicines, especially in Asia. This medicinal herb is extensively used as mental tonic, body revitalizer, memory enhancer and as a nerve tonic. It is best known for its ability to enhance memory and also helps to cope with the negative effects of stress. Bacopa is an excellent home remedy for a host of skin problems like psoriasis, eczema, abscess and ulceration. It is good for skin, hair and nail growth. Brahmi considerably reduces oxidation of fats in the blood, thereby reducing the chances of cardiovascular diseases.

There are many more herbs found all round the world, and each one of them has special health benefits. Herbs like Azadirachta indica (Neem), Boswellia Serrata (Shallaki), Shilajit, St John's Wort, Terminalia, Triphala, Wheatgrass are some more adding to the vast galleria of herbs that grows in different parts of the world.

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