A journey through the ancient lore of herbal medicine has many treasures. Here we’ll explore the medicinal benefits of various herbs: Garlic, Thyme, Comfrey, Willow bark, and more. If you’re looking for a new way to treat your aches and pains, these herbal remedies may be just the thing for you. Listed below are some of the herbs that are most popular in herbal medicine.
Garlic
The list of benefits of garlic is long and impressive. It has anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties, and eases constricted breathing associated with asthma. It is also effective at lowering total cholesterol, increasing HDL cholesterol, and altering the LDL to HDL ratio. It can also reduce the risk of infection and sepsis, and combat the spasmodic pains of the digestive tract. It also has an age-old reputation as an aphrodisiac and sexual stimulation. Its organosulfur content inhibits mediators that trigger the inflammatory response.
Among its many medicinal benefits, garlic is an old-world plant with an impressive history. It has been used for millennia for its culinary, medicinal, and spiritual benefits. While it is thought to be native to China, it was grown and used in the Middle East as early as 5,000 BC. In addition to its culinary use, garlic has also been used in the treatment of many maladies, such as respiratory infections and plagues.
Garlic is available in many commercial preparations, each providing a different profile of organosulfur compounds. Unlike garlic flowers, garlic tincture is stable for a year, and is stored in dark, cool conditions. Garlic tincture is thought to be more bioavailable and efficient than dried forms. In addition, it can last longer than fresh garlic. If you want to use garlic as a medicine, you should make a tincture with it, as fresh garlic can spoil quickly.
Thyme
A common herbal ingredient in cooking, thyme is one of the oldest herbs in the world. Native to the Mediterranean, it has been cultivated throughout the world. It is often used to make mouthwash, but it has other uses as well, including sore throats and infections. Thyme is often used in place of the endangered osha herb. Its potent aroma and flavor make it an excellent medicinal herb.
In the novel, Claire first visits Craigh na Dun with Frank and Mr. Crook, who also have medicinal plants. The television series does not feature the characters of Mr. Crook, but the character makes an appearance in the book. Thyme is also used to treat a wide variety of common ailments, including colds, flu, and stomachaches. In addition to thyme, Claire grows yarrow, foxglove, and sweet violet.
Comfrey
The use of comfrey in medicinal herbal formulas was first linked to liver-centered ailments in the late 80s and early 90s. At least one individual consumed extreme dosages of the herb – 10 cups of tea per day! That amount is huge, even for any plant! However, the herb’s oil was relatively safe when applied topically. In addition to the benefits that it provides, it is safe when used topically.
Infused oils of comfrey are useful for treating skin ailments, including acne and boils. The herb also has antiseptic properties and can reduce the severity of psoriasis. Make an infused oil by mixing chopped comfrey leaves with a good-quality vegetable oil. Don’t use a plastic bottle for this purpose. Next, heat the herb-infused oil over a bain-marie until it begins to simmer. Once simmered, it can be applied to the affected areas to speed up healing. Be sure to use this herb under medical supervision.
As an herbal remedy, comfrey is a good choice for a variety of health problems, from post-surgical pain to chronic pain. The plant’s antioxidants and organic compounds make it an effective pain reliever. Comfrey is also an effective herbal remedy for leaky gut syndrome, and it is useful for treating inflammation and ulcers. Likewise, it repairs damaged bones and promotes wound healing.
Another effective remedy for dry scalp is comfrey oil poultice. This poultice combines comfrey leaves with a carrier oil such as almond or jojoba. The mixture is then applied to the affected area, such as a swollen calf. This method works quickly and effectively. It has many health benefits, so it is worth trying it for dry scalp.
Willow bark
The use of willow bark has been around for thousands of years. Hippocrates used it as a remedy for fever. The use of willow bark in medicine has continued throughout history, especially in Europe and China. Today, it is widely used in herbal medicine for pain, headaches, and inflammation. The white bark of the willow tree contains salicin, a chemical similar to acetylsalicylic acid. Willow bark also contains powerful plant compounds known as flavonoids that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
People suffering from liver, kidney, or GI problems should not take willow bark. It is not recommended during pregnancy due to its presence of salicylates. Willow bark may interact with other drugs and increase the risk of bleeding. It may also make beta blockers and diuretics less effective. People with a history of severe stomach upset should avoid taking willow bark. It is not recommended for people under the age of 16. Although most people don’t experience side effects of willow bark, they should consult their healthcare provider before using this medicinal herb.
In the book, Claire searches for wood sorrel, a poisonous mushroom. As she walks, she accidentally bangs her head on a branch. Claire immediately gives Jamie a tea made from willow bark to help ease his pain. This remedy works remarkably well. But it has one other benefit, too: it helps reduce fever. It also helps treat various types of pain. Claire’s willow bark tea has anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce the effects of over-the-counter painkillers.
