The Best Herbs for Women

We women suffer from some interesting ailments on a daily basis and we can use all the help possible to keep us going. Moms don't get a day off, so when they are sick or feeling out-of-sorts they need something to get them back on track as fast as possible. We are working women, we are strong women, and when something works against our strength we become determined to fight it off. Use the following herbs to help battle some of those ailments that get us down and your recovery time can be quick.

Peppermint

Peppermint not only work as a pick-me-up, but taken in oil capsule form it can help combat the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Take it with your meals.

Chaste Tree

A great help with PMS symptoms like irritability, mood swings, bloating and headaches. It normalizes the hormones.

Lemon Balm

Lemon Balm contains L-theanine (an amino acid found in tea leaves), which helps to calm anxiety. It is said to work within twenty minutes. Use it with Valerian root for anxiety attacks and it will not cause confusion and hallucinations like some prescription medications do.

Licorice

Combine licorice with ibuprofen to help ease menstrual cramps. The licorice keeps the ibuprofen from irritating the lining of the stomach. Licorice also works as a mild laxative.

Ginger

Ginger helps relieve an upset stomach. Take it for any tummy issues; whether it's cramps, gas, or nausea.

Lavender

Use lavender to help fight depression. You can take it as an infusion, just boil the buds in water and strain. Drink after it cools. Use as an aromatherapy treatment also. Just the scent will help lift your mood.

St. John's Wort

This one can also help with mood issues and irritability. But it can have negative effects on the usefulness of some prescription medications (like birth control).

Rosemary

Use rosemary infused water to rub on the stomach when in labor to help relieve pain and for some relaxation. Rosemary is also helpful for depression.

Chamomile

For insomnia, irritability, upset stomach and numerous other ailments that are in relation to these you can simply sip some chamomile tea. It is also known to have an anti-inflammatory effect.

Always make sure to check with your doctor before doing any alternative therapies and before taking any kind of medications, supplements or herbal remedies.

Source:

Bremnes, L. (1990). Reader's Digest Home Handbooks: Herbs.