A Quick Guide to Herbal Remedies – G through M
Juniper – A strong diuretic and antiseptic, Juniper has been used to help clear urinary tract infections and relieve fluid retention. Topically, Juniper can be used in an ointment for the relief of chronic arthritis pain, gout and other rheumatic diseases.
Lavender – One of the great stress killing herbs, Lavender is for total relaxation. It stimulates blood flow, clears depression, aids in proper sleep patterns and cures headaches. Lavender oil can be applied topically for the relief of muscle spasms and rheumatic diseases.
Lemon – Although lemons are a fruit not an herb, we’ve included it here because of the health benefits of adding pure lemon to your diet. High in vitamin C, lemon juice and oil have long been taken to help cure the common cold. It has also been taken as a preventative for many conditions including stomach infections and arteriosclerosis. Lemon also is an anti-inflammatory, improves the digestive process and reduces fever. Lemon juice kills germs (ever wonder why most cleaning supplies smell like lemon?). For a more natural cleaning solution, use pure lemon juice instead of the chemical cleaners widely available. (Be careful though, high concentrations of lemon juice can stain fabric and wood. See our articles on “Spots and Stains” and “Cleaners” for more helpful hints on how to use lemon in the home.)
Lemongrass – In tea, lemongrass helps to relieve stomach ache, diarrhea, cramping and gas. It can also reduce fever and pain.
Marjoram – In tea, marjoram has been used to help ease menstruation, aid digestion and increase sweating (to break a fever). As an inhalant it can be used to help clear sinuses and congestion and relieve sore throat and laryngitis. Wild marjoram can be used to quiet the stomach, alleviate gas pain and bloating and can also be taken for coughs, tonsillitis, asthma and bronchitis. Direct application can be beneficial for joint and tooth pain.
Mistletoe – We all know that mistletoe promotes smooching but did you also know that it has been commonly used as a tranquilizer? Mistletoe can lower blood pressure, treat hyperactivity in children, relieve panic attacks and headaches, improves concentration and has been used to treat epilepsy. There are properties of the mistletoe plant that have been shown to inhibit tumors and current research is being done to determine how it can treat cancer patients.
Myrrh – A very popular fragrance, myrrh also holds significant health bolstering properties. It is an antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, astringent, expectorant, stimulant and antispasmodic. It can be used to treat infections in the mouth and mucous membrane of the nose and throat. It can be used topically to treat acne and boils.
Myrtle – As an astringent, myrtle can be used topically for oily skin and is a main ingredient in natural acne medications. It can be applied directly to wounds for aid in healing and if taken internally can help remedy digestive and urinary tract ailments.
| 
Email this Article
Print this Article
