Naturally Spirited Autumn Edition Oct 2024

Native Healing Herbs DISCOVER POWERFUL, MEDICINAL PLANTS

Discover the healing power of nature with these 10 native UK herbs. From soothing teas to natural remedies, these plants offer holistic and medicinal benefits. Embracing them not only connects you to centuries-old traditions but also promotes sustainable, eco-friendly wellness in your everyday life.

Nettle (Urtica dioica)

Nettles are packed with vitamins and minerals, including iron and calcium Known for their anti-inflammatory properties, they’re traditionally used to treat arthritis and other joint pains.

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

Yarrow is a natural astringent and has been used for centuries to stop bleeding It’s often brewed as a tea to aid digestion and relieve menstrual cramps.

Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria)

Known as nature’s aspirin, meadowsweet contains salicylates, making it useful for relieving headaches and pain. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and is used for treating digestive issues

Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)

Famous for its calming properties, chamomile is a gentle sedative that helps alleviate insomnia and anxiety It also soothes digestive issues and skin irritations

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)

Thyme has potent antiseptic and antimicrobial properties. It’s traditionally used to treat respiratory conditions like bronchitis, and its essential oil is a common natural remedy for coughs

Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis)

Marshmallow root is a traditional remedy for soothing sore throats and treating coughs due to its mucilaginous properties. It also helps with digestive discomfort and skin irritations.

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)

Dandelions are a diuretic and support liver function. Rich in antioxidants, they help detoxify the body and are used in both culinary and medicinal preparations

Top tip :

For more infomation or help with prescribing herbs, please seek the advice of a qualified herbalist here: nimh.org.uk/find-a-herbalist

Comfrey (Symphytum officinale)

Comfrey, also called "knitbone," has been used for centuries to speed the healing of broken bones and wounds. It contains allantoin, which promotes tissue regeneration.

Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna)

Hawthorn is traditionally used to support heart health It helps regulate blood pressure and circulation, and its berries are rich in antioxidants, protecting against cardiovascular disease.

Plantain (Plantago major)

A natural anti-inflammatory, plantain is often applied as a poultice to treat wounds and insect bites It’s also known to soothe digestive issues when taken internally.

This article explores the healing properties of 10 native UK herbs, including nettle for inflammation, meadowsweet for pain relief, and hawthorn for heart health These herbs have been used for centuries in natural remedies, offering sustainable wellness alternatives However, while they may provide significant benefits, it is crucial to consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any herbs for medical purposes. Herbal remedies can interact with medications or have contraindications for certain health conditions Seeking professional advice ensures safe, effective use, allowing you to incorporate these natural solutions into your health regimen with confidence and care.

Here are five resources where you can find more information about herbs and their medicinal properties: Herbal Reality - A UK-based platform offering extensive information on herbal medicine, its benefits, and sustainable practices herbalreality.com

National Institute of Medical Herbalists (NIMH) - A professional body that promotes the safe and effective use of herbal medicine, providing a directory of qualified herbal practitioners nimh.org.uk

Herb Society UK - Dedicated to promoting the understanding and use of herbs for health and wellbeing, offering educational resources and events herbsociety.org.uk

Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew - A world-renowned research institution providing information on plantbased medicine, with online resources and exhibitions kew.org

College of Medicine and Integrated Health - An organization focused on integrating natural remedies with conventional medicine, offering courses and educational resources on herbal medicine. collegeofmedicine.org.uk