A-Z of Healing Herbs and Spices

We thought we would change things up a bit today and focus on some healing herbs. Understanding the role of herbs (and, trying to navigate the aisles at your local health food store) can be overwhelming, to say the least. There are so many varieties, brands, and combinations available to consumers.

If we choose to supplement with herbs (in addition to what we get from our regular diet) we need some additional information.

Acerola

This healing herb is the compound made from a cherry-sized berry that is very high in both vitamins C and A. It is known to have anti-inflammatory properties (particularly of the digestive tract) and to serve as treatment for the common cold.

Bilberry

Pilots during WWII claimed that eating bilberry jam before night flying improved their eyesight. Research supports this claim – the antioxidants in bilberry are known to improve eyesight and decrease the incidence of macular degeneration. It is also thought to stabilize ligaments and tendons and to strengthen red blood cells.

Cilantro (also known as coriander)

This is a “super” herb, in that it possesses many health benefits. It contains fiber, many vitamins and minerals, as well as iron. It is thought of as a hypoglycemic herb (lowers blood sugar), and also as a rich antioxidant.

Dandelion

The list of ailments that this herb is believed to treat is impressive. Known widely as a treatment for liver and kidney problems, it can also help with problems of the gallbladder, and has been used to treat infections.

Evening Primrose Oil

This healing herb has remarkable healing properties based on its concentration of gamma-linoleic acid. It is used to treat migraine headaches, symptoms of PMS, menstrual cramps, and even endometriosis. It is also said to aid in the treatment of eczema, acne, and rosacea.

Flaxseed

A popular addition to many anti-inflammatory health regimens, the high content of omega 3 fatty acids reduces the risk of heart disease, and helps in the treatment of lupus and gout. Flaxseed oil also helps eczema and psoriasis.

Ginger

This is available in many forms from tonics to teas, ginger has a long list of health benefits. Primarily used to calm an upset stomach (heartburn, nausea, bloating), ginger is also anti-viral, lowers blood pressure and cholesterol, and can even treat arthritic joint conditions.

Hawthorn Berry

A more rare healing herb and is currently used throughout Europe as a treatment in the early stages of heart disease. Hawthorn is thought to reduce the symptoms of angina, high blood pressure, and cardiac arrhythmia.

Juniper

Like many of the others listed her, this is used as a remedy for digestive problems, as well as for its diuretic properties (helps with gout, urinary tract infections). It is high in natural insulin, so it helps to lower blood sugar levels. When applied topically, juniper can treat conditions like athlete’s foot, warts, and cystitis.

Kelp

This is a type of seaweed and contains many important nutrients such as iodine, iron, calcium, and potassium. People consuming a vegan diet frequently supplement with kelp powder to aid in boosting their metabolism. Additionally, in encouraging healthy hair and nail growth.

Licorice Root

A healing that is well documented for healing stomach ulcers, boosting immunity and treating coughs and sore throats, and in enhancing our production of cortisol (stress-fighting hormone).

Maca Root

This herb is sometimes referred to as “Peruvian Ginseng” because of its ability to enhance energy and stamina. It is also recognized as a treatment for fatigue and hot flashes for women in menopause. And in its ability to treat mild depression (boosts serotonin levels in the brain).

Nettle

A wide range of health benefits, including the treatment of hay fever, bladder infections, prostate enlargement, gingivitis, and even baldness, have been linked to the addition of a nettle supplement to the diet.

Olive Leaf

This healing herb is a strong anti-viral, olive leaf extract supports a healthy immune system and can help fight many viral infections. It is also linked to improved cardiovascular health.

Peppermint

Helps to clear congestion caused by colds, and to reduce inflammation in the sinuses and throat. Peppermint tea is known to aid in digestion, and peppermint oil to soothe the skin when applied topically.

Rhodiola

This herb has been used for thousands of years in the treatment of muscle repair, protecting the immune system, reducing stress, fighting depression, and in increasing the body’s resistance to toxins.

Saffron

Among one of the most expensive spices in the world as the delicate stigmas can only be harvested by hand. When they are soaked in warm tea or milk, many benefits are released. Saffron is thought to clear the airways of people with asthma, aid in treating insomnia, and to prevent arteriosclerosis.

Turmeric

These healing herbs, are a widely accepted alternative to pharmaceutical anti-inflammatories, and is used in the treatment of arthritis and irritable bowel syndrome. It is also known to reduce blood sugar levels and to improve liver function. It is also a delicious addition to most curry recipes. Yum.

Valerian

the root of this plant is ground to a powder and is widely recognized as a sleep aid. Many people use valerian root to help them fall asleep as it relaxes and calms the nervous system, is non-addictive, and has no hangover effect.

We trust that this has been an interesting and informative introduction to the many benefits of healing herbs and spices.

At Ki’s Kitchen, it is always our goal to include a broad and flavourful array of healing spices in our dishes. However, in some cases, the herbs and spices listed above (as well as many others that are too numerous to mention here) are more available and/or suitable to being ingested as a supplement, or, in some cases, to being applied topically.

If you have questions, or would like additional information on any of the above, please don’t hesitate to ask. We would love to support your nutritional journey.

Lastly, thank you so much for visiting! I hope you have found some valuable information, if so, I’d love to hear about it!

Please feel free to share this post with anyone who might benefit, and comments are always welcome!

I look forward to connecting with you next time!

And be sure to check out why you should order your family’s next meal courtesy of Ki’s Kitchen  

From our kitchen to yours,

Love + Peace

Kiran