A Complete Herbal Supplement Guide

When it comes to a Herbal Supplement Guide, there are plenty to choose from. Each has its own function and mixture of ingredients. Dietary supplements are used to fill gaps where there is a lack of certain vitamins and minerals that are not being given by a person’s diet or inability to absorb them properly.

Although getting vitamins, fiber, minerals, and other essential nutrients from natural sources such as meat and plants sometimes a person can overlook or misunderstand their body’s need for the number of different vitamins needed, which is where a Herbal Supplement Guide comes in. 

Supplements do come with many downsides and can sometimes cause more harm than good. A Herbal Supplement Guide isn’t just intended for dietary needs but it can also help us relax, sleep better and help brain and organ functionality. As previously mentioned there is an array of different kinds to choose from which all have their uses. However, there are other much more natural ways to get these benefits with the use of synthetic drugs. The most common and healthiest way is herbal supplements as they occur in nature and have been used for thousands if not millions of years. Let’s take a look at some of the best alternatives that can help us keep healthy in more ways than one. 

What is a Herbal Supplement Guide? 

Herbal Supplement Guide: Herbal supplements are products that contain plants with healing properties, they come in many different forms and are meant to internally treat illnesses and ease issues relating to health. 

Herbal supplements can be used in pill form, powdered, chopped, liquid and capsules. The usage of these supplements is highly controversial but is still taken by many people. They have been used in healing and as a treatment for thousands of years but in recent years, synthetic medications have taken over. Herbal supplements are made exclusively from plants and botanicals that are then compounded into whatever form is the best for their usage. 

Most Common Herbal Supplements Guide and Uses

• Ginkgo

Ginkgo biloba is a handy form of natural medicine as it helps prevent and treat illnesses such as dementia, glaucoma, vertigo, memory loss, SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction, cognitive disorders, and more. It’s native to China and has been used to treat ailments for thousands of years. Some of the benefits that Gingko has are;

• Powerful antioxidants 
• Fights inflammation 
• Improves heart health 
• Decreases symptoms of psychiatric disorders
• Helps brain function 
• Improves overall well-being 
• Reduced symptoms of dementia

• Flaxseed

Flaxseeds are a healthy and tasty way to jazz up many meals. It has a nutty taste and texture and can be added to a wide range of foods whether as an incorporated ingredient or topping. It is packed with nutrients and has a number of health benefits which are namely;

• Jam packed with different vitamins and minerals
• It is high in omega-3 fatty acids
• Can help protect you against cancer 
• Is rich in fiber 
• It helps lower cholesterol levels
• Reduces blood pressure
• It stabilizes blood sugar levels
• It can help with weight management 
• It’s extremely easy to use and is very versatile 

• Chamomile 

Chamomile is another ancient remedy that has been used to treat numerous illnesses throughout the ages. It is commonly drunk as a tea and can help prevent and ease many unpleasant conditions. Chamomile is white flowers that are steeped in boiling water and often drunk with honey. Although it is a natural remedy just like other natural supplements it isn’t safe for everyone and it is recommended to start with lower dosages such as weak tea and then build up to higher potencies. The health benefits of this flower are;

• Helps treat diabetes
• Eases menstrual pains 
• Helps prevent osteoporosis 
• Reduces inflammation 
• It’s used as cancer prevention and treatment 
• Helps with insomnia and to have a better night’s sleep
• Has relaxing properties
• Helps treat flu and colds
• Helps ease and treat mild skin-related conditions 

• Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera can be considered a miracle plant. It has been around for centuries and is a staple in ancient American healing and medicine. Unlike many other natural supplements, it can be used both internally as well as externally. It’s a very common ingredient in tons of today’s skincare products, hair care products, shower gels, and medicine. It is filled with plenty of useful health benefits;

• Boosts your immune system 
• Nourishes hydrates and soothes skin
• Soothes digestive problems
• Boosts energy
• Hydrates the body
• Helps manage weight
• Has terrific cleansing properties 
• Promotes cell growth and regenerates
• Helps prevent and treat gum disease
• Eases and prevents constipation 
• Promotes healthy hair

• Echinacea

This purple flower has been used by Native Americans for hundreds of years and is a very well-known remedy worldwide. It is more commonly found in today over the counter medication targeted in fighting the symptoms of the common cold and influenza. However, it has much more useful benefits than this, some are;

• High antioxidant content
• It helps your immune system fight off bacteria and infections
• It helps lower blood sugar levels
• Can help reduce the feelings of anxiety 
• Anti-inflammatory 
• Can suppress acne
• Can help protect against cancer

• Black Cohosh

Also known as baneberry, fairy candle and black snakeroot, this plant’s roots and flowers have been used by native Americans for many years. It is now used as a popular supplement taken by women from all over the world. It’s benefits include the following;

• Alleviates menopause symptoms 
• Can help improve fertility
• Can help slow down the spread and severity of breast cancer
• Improves psychological symptoms
• Improves sleep for menopausal women
• Helps manage unwanted weight in menopausal women

• St. John’s Wort

St. John’s Wort can be bought over the counter in many health shops and there is no need for a prescription. This plant was used in many ancient Roman medicines and is still used today for its great benefits;

• It can help fight off viruses
• It can be used as an alternative to antidepressants but first consult this change with your doctor
• Provides relief from menstrual cramps
• Helps ease symptoms of menopause
• Can provide anxiety relief 
• Help enhance heart health 
• Can act as a painkiller
• Helps to boost immune system 
• Eases pain from mild burns

• Soy

Soy can be found in many foods and is often eaten for protein. It’s derived from legumes and soybeans which is a great way to add amino acids to your diet. The benefits of soy include;

• Omega-3 
• Omega-6
• Magnesium
• Fibre
• Calcium
• Potassium 
• Eases symptoms of menopause 
• Copper 
• Plant fats
• Vitamins and minerals
• Helps lower cholesterol levels
• Protects heart health
• Can lower blood sugar levels
• Can aid in fertility 
• Improves bone health
• Reduces the risk of breast cancer

• Peppermint: Herbal Supplement Guide

Peppermint is related to the mint family and is a very fragrant herb. It is crossed between watermint and spearmint and is considered as a hybrid. The oils that are extracted from its leaves have been used for many different kinds of purposes for hundreds of years;

• Treatment for irritable bowel syndrome.
• Helps nausea 
• Works wonders for any digestive issues
• Helps with itchiness
• Soothes muscle aches
• Can help treat common cold symptoms
• provides headache relief
•  Aids in skin and hair health

• Tea Tree Oil

Tea Tree oil is harvested from leaves belonging to the Australian native tea tree. This oil has been used by aboriginal people of Australia for thousands of years and has many healing properties. Some of its uses include the following;

• It has dehydrating properties that can be used to remove skin tags
• It has great antiviral benefits to help stop the spread of flu
• It helps boost the immune system
• It is an antiseptic solution
• It kills fungal infections

• Evening Primrose

It is a plant that is native to North America. Its seeds are used to make an oil that has many great properties. Due to its gamma-linolenic acid content, it provides many great healing benefits such as;

• It helps clear acne
• It can aid in the relief of eczema 
• It can help with skin firmness, moisture, and elasticity 
• Can prevent PMS symptoms 
• It helps to minimize pain in the breasts
• It helps to reduce high blood pressure 
• Helps heart health

• Feverfew

It is of the Asteraceae family and is a flowing plant. It has many advantageous compounds such as volatile oils and flavonoids. It is also referred to as the medieval aspirin as it has very effective benefits that can be listed as;

• It possesses anticancer properties 
• Extremely useful in treating fevers
• It can help elevate your mood
• It treats acne and rosacea 
• Has anti-inflammatory effects
• Helps ease and prevent migraines
• Soothes headaches
• Acts as a pain reliever 

• Goldenseal

Its plant is native to eastern Northern America. It is currently ranked as one of the world’s most popular natural remedies due to its many health benefits which include;

• Treatment of colds and flu
• It aids in healthy gums
• Helps ease skin problems and irritations
• It helps treat upper respiratory infections
• Fights off viruses and bacteria
• It helps to detox the body 
• It helps with yeast and urinary tract infections
• Eases symptoms of herpes and chlamydia 

• Green Tea: Herbal Supplement Guide

Herbal Supplement Guide: Green tea is made from leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. It is said to be one of the healthiest drinks on the planet and has many great healing properties that are used to treat several unpleasant symptoms. Some of its benefits are;

• Improves the functionality of your brain
• It helps protect against cancer
• It lowers the risk of heart disease
• It’s gas bioactive compounds
• Helps burn unwanted fat
• Helps to prevent the risk of type 2 diabetes 

• Black Garlic

Herbal Supplement Guide: Black garlic is the result of fermentation from controlled high humidity and temperature. This happens over several weeks and the final result is a blackened garlic bulb that has an abundance of wonderful healing properties;

• It has many antioxidants 
• It can help to regulate blood sugar levels
• Can help reduce the risk of developing heart disease
• It protects the health of your brain
• Contains anti-cancer properties 
• It can help protect the liver from diseases, further damage, and injuries
• Helps combat chronic conditions 

• Hawthorn

Herbal Supplement Guide: Hawthorn berries grow on shrubs as well as trees. It is more commonly found in Asia, North America, and Europe. These berries are more tart than sweet but hold many health benefits that include;

• Abundant in antioxidants 
• Contains anti-inflammatory properties 
• It helps lower blood pressure
• It can help reduce levels of cholesterol in the blood
• It helps digestion
• Anti-aging properties 
• Can help reduce anxiety 
• It is used to treat heart failure
• Aids with feelings of fatigue 

• Saw Palmetto

Herbal Supplement Guide: Saw Palmetto is made from the Sereno repens fruit and is made into a supplement. It has many advantages and can be used to treat many issues. Some of the benefits this supplement has are;

• Aids in the health of the prostate 
• Helps with urinary function
• Can reduce baldness in males
• It helps protects libido
• Helps fertility in men
• Increases testosterone levels
• It reduces inflammation 
• Aids in sexual dysfunction 
• Can help to treat infections
• Aids in stress relief

• Ginseng

Herbal Supplement Guide: More commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine, Ginseng has been around and used for many years. There are different types of this herb but the most popular are the Asian Ginseng and the American Ginseng. These herbs, although similar, can also give different uses. The main benefits of Ginseng as a whole are;

• It is a very potent antioxidant
• Helps reduce inflammation 
• It can help brain functionality 
• Helps to improve erectile dysfunction 
• Boosts the immune system
• Possible health benefits against cancers
• Can help with energy levels
• Lowers blood sugar levels

• Ephedra

Herbal Supplement Guide: This herb also known as ma huang has been used for over 5000 years in Chinese medicines. It is naturally occurring and has the main ingredient called ephedrine. It is a multi use herb with benefits including;

• Help ease cold and flu symptoms
• Is used to treat asthma 
• Provides relief for fever and congestion
• Used to help increase athletic performance 
• Treatment for hives
• Aids in weight loss 
• Boosts metabolism 
• Helps manage cholesterol levels
• Retains muscle during the loss of weight

• Valerian

Herbal Supplement Guide: Native to Asia and Europe this flowering plant has been used as far back as in the Roman and Greek Era. It is often used to treat insomnia as a natural remedy. It does however have other health benefits which include the following;

• Regulates blood pressure
• It can reduce the risks of heart attacks and strokes
• Improves the quality of sleep
• Can help to cure insomnia 
• Can aid in fighting against infections
• Eases stomach issues 
• Reduces stress levels 
• Reduces anxiety 

• Ginger

Herbal Supplement Guide: Ginger originated in South East Asia and is a flowing plant. It is a very common spice and ingredient used around the world and is considered to be one of the tastiest as well. Not only is ginger great for cooking but it also has many health benefits such as;

• Has a powerful medicinal property called gingerol
• Helps soothe morning sickness and nausea
• Aids in weight loss
• Helps with osteoarthritis 
• Decreases risks of heart disease
• Lowers blood sugar levels

• Kava

Herbal Supplement Guide: This plant is native to the South Pacific Islands and is also called Kava Kava. It has been used for ceremonies as a special calming drink for hundreds of years. The roots are usually ground into a paste consistency and a liquid is made from this. Its health benefits include;

• It can protect your neurons from damage
• Helps reduce pain
• Reduces and eases anxiety
• It May help to reduce the risk of developing cancer
• Has powerful calming properties

• Arnica

Herbal Supplement Guide: Arnica looks very similar to that of a daisy and is bright yellow in color. Native to Canada this perennial herb is also called mountain tobacco. It has been used for centuries for many forms of treatment which can still be useful today. The benefits of Arnica are as follows;

• Helps in the management of pain
• It is used to help treat bruises
• Can help treat hair loss
• Promotes hair growth
• Reduces swelling of injuries 
• Acts as an anti-inflammatory 

• Ligusticum

Herbal Supplement Guide: Ligusticum can also be referred to as Osha root and has been used to treat different ailments and symptoms for many years. It has been commonly used in Hispanic cultures and by Native Americans for its healing properties which include;

• It can aid in indigestion
• Soothe digestive issues
• Used to help heal open wounds
• Can be used as a treatment for respiratory infections
• Eases symptoms of flu and colds
• Aids in the relief of viral infections such as herpes
• Can help soothe a sore throat

• Turmeric

Herbal Supplement Guide: Turmeric is a spice that is often used to enhance flavors in foods. However, it has other great healing properties and uses. These benefits come mainly from its active ingredient called curcumin. Some of the ways that turmeric can help your mind and body are;

• It has medicinal properties 
• Has bioactive compounds
• It is a natural anti-inflammatory 
• It can increase the antioxidants in one’s body 
• Lowers the risk of heart disease 
• Helps prevent cancer
• Treatment for Alzheimer’s disease 

• Elderberry

Herbal Supplement Guide: Originally used by ingenious people Elderberry is one of the most popular natural remedies today. It was even used by ancient Egyptians for its wonderful health benefits which are as follows;

• It has a level of a high nutrient
• Can ease symptoms of flu and colds
• Has a high level of antioxidants 
• Aids in heart health

• Horse Chestnut

Herbal Supplement Guide: This tree is native to Balkan Peninsula. Its seeds are what is useful to create an extract that has many health benefits;

• Can relieve chronic venous insufficiency 
• Can be used to treat varicose veins 
• Act as an anti-inflammatory 

There is a very long list of beneficial plants that can act in place of synthetic supplements in a Herbal Supplement Guide. Often these natural remedies have been used for many years and are still active ingredients and treatments to this day.