FIVE HERO PLANTS ( AND HOW TO USE THEM)
Ginger
In Ayurveda, ginger is called ‘the universal medicine’. A cure for nausea and stomach pain, it has anti-inflammatory properties that may reduce arthritis, and can help you sweat away a fever. Add a few slices of fresh root to boiling water with lemon juice and honey.
Lavender
Antibacterial, antifungal and analgesic, lavender oil was used during World War I to treat wounded soldiers. Dab it onto burns and insect bites or burn it in an oil diffuser to calm the nerves and aid sleep: researchers at King’s College, London found that inhaling diffused lavender oil calmed dental patients.
Nettle
A staple of the herbalist’s cabinet, used to boost blood health and circulation, regulate metabolism, improve liver function and banish fatigue. Its effectiveness against allergies is backed up by academic research: pick fresh, young leaves (or buy dried ones) to make a tea to relieve hay fever, rhinitis and blocked sinuses.
Rosemary
Shakespeare’s Ophelia was right when she said of rosemary: ‘that’s for remembrance’. A study at Northumbria University proved that inhaling the diffused essential oil improved prospective memory – the ability to remember future tasks, such as taking a pill or posting a birthday card – by up to 75%. A tea made from rosemary leaves steeped in boiling water is a great stress-reliever; let it cool and you’ve got a hair rinse to soothe an itchy scalp.
Turmeric
A daily cup of turmeric milk can ease period pain, lessen headaches, soothe coughs and sore throats and help you sleep (if you drink it an hour before bedtime). Whisk a teaspoon of powdered turmeric, a twist of black pepper and a pinch of dried ginger into a small saucepan of milk or nut milk and bring to a simmer for 3-4 minutes. Sweeten with honey.