We stress it all of the time – the fact that Western medicine is designed to treat the symptoms and not the cause. With holistic thinking, you’re thinking not just about the physical symptoms of pain you experience, but tackling your issues with a perspective that factors in everything including mind, body, soul, and even social factors.
When you begin to factor in these variables, your approach in treating illnesses will drastically change. No longer will you feel the need to go to your doctor or dentist and simply ask for a pill that or procedure that will magically cure everything – only to leave you with different symptoms that appear later.
Herbs are one way in which we can treat a variety of different illness and ailment, without triggering a new problem. That is why we have composed a handy list of various herbs (and a majority you have probably heard of) and the ailments they have ability in treating.
18 Natural Herbs for Holistic Health
1. Chamomile – often used in teas does not only help people get to sleep, but also provides a remedy for stomach-related issues including heartburn and indigestion.
2. Ginseng – widely popular for improving overall health and stamina.
3. Mullein – used as a natural remedy for chest congestion or bronchial coughs.
4. Peppermint – popularized for its use in treating nausea and digestive problems. Peppermint oil has shown effectiveness in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
5. Tea Tree Oil – used for dry scalp, as well as fungal infections including athlete’s foot and fungal infections found in toenails and fingernails.
6. Valerian Root – another remedy to fix an inability to sleep at night.
7. Ginger – contains anti-inflammatory properties and has been noted as a great way to combat nausea from motion sickness.
8. Turmeric – my help with the swelling pains associated with arthritis, as well as prevent colon cancer.
9. Dandelion – helps stimulate kidneys to improve urine function and aids in flushing out the urinary tract.
10. St. John’s Wort – offers a natural remedy in the treatment of depression and anxiety, as well as aiding in sleep.
11. Echinacea – used for treatment of sore throats and colds.
12. Cinnamon – used in the natural treatment of lowering blood sugar levels, as well as cholesterol.
13. Sage – helpful in treating laryngitis, tonsillitis, and sore throats.
14. Feverfew – may help curb migraine headaches.
15. Pennyroyal – known for its use in treating headaches.
16. Foxglove – in low doses can be effective in treating issues with the heart including rhythm and contractility.
17. Lavender – helpful in treating stress and may applied to the body to treat eczema.
18. Lovage – a natural remedy that may help reduce redness of the eyes.
Will These Herbal Medicines Work?
Well, we cannot guarantee that. And the same could be said using prescription drugs and undergoing extensive procedures. However, when your health is at stake, we believe it is far better to look into holistic herbal remedies first before turning to Western medicine’s approach.
A word of caution: mixing certain natural remedies with each other may produce unwanted side effects. This is why is it recommended to see a naturopathic doctor or nutrition counselor for professional advice.
Dr. Villarreal is a practicing holistic dentist with a physical location in Newbury Park. He provides a variety of other services including nutrition counseling where your ailments and issues could be discussed in further detail to develop a strategy in the treatment and prevention of illness.
