Kitchen Herbs as Medicine

Whether you have a fresh herb garden, inside or out, or you keep dried herbs, many people have a plethora of amazing herbs at their fingertips and they don’t even realize it. I’ve had many countless people contact me for help during a cold or flu and I’ve made suggestions based off of what I know is likely in their spice cabinet. When I went to school for my herbal certificate, this was a topic we discussed since these are very powerful herbs. If you don’t keep these on hand now, you may consider doing so after reading this article.

Kitchen herbs have been used for centuries as natural remedies for various ailments. Many common herbs, such as ginger, turmeric, and garlic, are known for their medicinal properties. These herbs contain antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and other beneficial components that can support overall health and well-being. For example, ginger can help alleviate nausea and support digestive function, while turmeric has been used for its anti-inflammatory properties. Incorporating kitchen herbs into your daily cooking or preparing them as teas can provide a natural way to support your health. It's important to research and understand the proper usage of these herbs as medicine, as well as consulting with a healthcare professional for any specific health concerns, but let’s discuss some popular herbs that are probably in your kitchen right now.

Let’s cover six popular herbs in this article. This will give you a gist of each one and then you can dive in deeper to the research. I recommend building up an herbal library of books, as well. Perhaps I will do an article of recommended reads to help get you started on your journey.

Oregano (Origanum vulgare) is one of my absolute favorite herbs for medicine. It’s part of the mint family which gives it a ton of plant relatives. Oregano has a long history of medicinal use dating back to ancient Greece. The Greeks and Romans used oregano for various health issues, including respiratory problems, stomach ailments, and inflammation. Oregano is rich in antioxidants and has antimicrobial properties, making it a popular natural remedy for fighting infections and boosting the immune system. Its essential oils, such as carvacrol and thymol, have been studied for their potential antibacterial and antifungal effects. Oregano is also believed to have anti-inflammatory properties and may help with digestion. Overall, oregano is a versatile herb with a wide range of potential medicinal benefits. This works well as an herbal infusion.

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is another one I recommend regularly. Thyme has long been valued for its medicinal properties. This versatile herb contains thymol, a natural compound known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties. Thyme has been used traditionally to help alleviate respiratory issues such as coughs, bronchitis, and sore throats. It is also believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it beneficial for overall immune support. Whether used in teas, tinctures, or as an essential oil, thyme continues to be a popular choice for those seeking natural remedies for various health concerns. Thyme is also incredibly effective at helping to restore your voice in the case of laryngitis.

Garlic has long since been a popular and known remedy for many ailments. Its medicinal properties are attributed to the compound allicin, which has been shown to have anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-viral properties. Many people take garlic supplements to support cardiovascular health, as it may help lower cholesterol levels and blood pressure. Additionally, garlic is often used as a natural antibiotic to support the immune system and fight off infections. While more research is needed to fully understand the extent of garlic's medicinal benefits, its long history of use in traditional medicine suggests that it can be a valuable addition to a holistic approach to wellness.

Onions are an incredible food that adds a lot of flavor to dishes and is a staple of most dishes and soups, but it’s also an incredible medicine. Packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, onions can help lower the risk of heart disease, control blood sugar levels, and improve digestive health. The sulfur compounds found in onions also have antibacterial and antiviral properties, making it an effective option for fighting off colds and other illnesses. Additionally, onion extract has been used topically to aid in healing wounds and reducing inflammation. Whether consumed raw, cooked, or in supplemental form, onions can be a valuable addition to a holistic approach to overall wellness.

Chives have been historically used for their medicinal properties, particularly for their potential to aid digestion and reduce inflammation. Rich in nutrients like vitamins A and C, chives are believed to possess antioxidant properties that may help to combat free radicals in the body. Additionally, some traditional medicinal practices suggest that chives may act as a natural diuretic, aiding in the elimination of toxins from the body. While modern scientific research on the medicinal benefits of chives is limited, these flavorful herbs have long been valued in culinary and alternative medicine practices for their potential health-promoting properties.

Mint has been utilized for centuries as a medicinal herb due to its various healing properties. It is often used to alleviate digestive discomfort such as indigestion, gas, and bloating, as well as to relieve symptoms of nausea. The menthol in mint leaves can also help to clear nasal passages and soothe sore throats, making it a popular ingredient in cough drops and throat lozenges. Additionally, mint has been shown to have natural antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which makes it a beneficial component in natural remedies for skin irritations and insect bites. Whether enjoyed as a warm cup of mint tea or applied topically as an essential oil, mint continues to be a valued and versatile herbal remedy in traditional and modern medicine alike.

I hope you learned something from this short article. At some point I’ll have to do longer articles on some of these herbs, but for now, these should get you started on your own research! I’ll do a part two in the near future. Let me know in the comments if you use any of these herbs in your own home apothecary. I’d love to hear about it.