I’ve always loved herbs since I was little and growing up, I am used to having them in my daily life, always in variety, enjoying their hot teas, especially in winter and in unique combinations that offer even more benefits.
In general, herbs are an excellent addition to the diet, as it has been known since ancient times that they have a healing effect and can treat various health problems, from the common cold and headache, to skin and cardiovascular diseases, kidney stones and many more conditions, while they’re also protective. There is, after all, a practice defined by the World Health Organization as herbal medicine, which is exactly all about that: it utilizes herbs and their benefits in various combinations to treat health problems.
So during all my life, I’ve searched and tasted lots of different kinds of herbs and lately I realized that my herbal experience has gone to the next level, with some organic herbs I’ve discovered, that use the whole leaf, flower or root, so that their aromas, benefits and taste is whole and clear and not diminished in any way, with more drastic substances and no impact on the environment, since they’re not processed and squeezed into tea bags.
So here are my favorites and their benefits, but feel free to try out as many of them as you can and find your own favorite combination which you can enjoy in a hot cup during cold winter days.
Calendula
Its flowers are considered to have anti-inflammatory properties and as a beverage it’s antispasmodic, while it also acts against eczema and contributes to healthier blood vessels.
Oregano
We may use oregano often as a topping in Greek “horiatiki” salad, but oregano tea is antibacterial, it has anti-inflammatory properties and multiple antioxidant benefits with high vitamin C content. Also, it is good for the stomach and has antiviral properties.
Nettle
Nettle is ideal in inflammatory conditions, especially those related to the urinary tract, while it is known for reducing the symptoms of prostate hyperplasia and arthritis. It has also shown good results in cases of eczema, while it can help regulate blood pressure, sugar and benefit in case of allergies, thanks to its antihistamine action.
Artemisia arborescens
It may be bitter, but research has shown that it has anti-cancer effects especially in cases of breast cancer, while at the same time it helps digestion, it is good for the liver and beneficial in cases of diabetes. It has an expectorant and antispasmodic effect and it can have a minor effect in cases of fever, obesity and anemia.
Sage
Sage is one of my favorite ones with powerful aroma and earthy taste, with more than 160 polyphenols, which apart from supporting our immune system, it also is beneficial in cases of cholesterol, it’s antimicrobial and it’s known for enhancing memory. It’s also a good choice when we’re sick, as it relieves sore throats, high fever and headache, combating inflammation in the pharynx. It’s also a wise choice during menstruation and it’s also beneficial for the nervous system, with all its antioxidants and vitamins.
Echinacea
Echinacea is linked to many health benefits as far as better immunity and lower inflammation is concerned. It’s known to relieve cases of urinary tract infection, it makes wounds heal faster and it can also help in faster recovery from a cold, in certain types of flu. It’s anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, high in antioxidants, while it may lower blood sugar levels and protect against cancer as it has been shown that it can trigger cell death. You need to be careful though and avoid it or consult a doctor or health professional if you’re dealing with autoimmune disorders, as it stimulates the immune system.
