Healing herbs - herbal teas as therapeutic remedies

In addition to adding freshness, flavour and interest to our food, herbs contain potent healing qualities and have been used therapeutically through out history. In fact orthodox medicine has its roots in the use of herbs, examples of this are aspirin which is derived from the willow, and steroids which originated from the west African wild yam. We are fortunate indeed to have an abundant supply of fresh and dried herbs. At our fingertips and making up your own home remedies can be simple fun and very effective:-

Colds

30g of fresh root ginger, 1-2 broken sticks of cinnamon, 2-5 g coriander seeds, 4 cloves and 600 ml water. Bring to the boil, lover and simmer for 20 minutes, add a slice of lemon in the last 5 minutes and sweeten with honey to taste. Drink frequently throughout the day.

Morning After Tea

put 1 teaspoon dried vervain and half a teaspoon of lavender flowers into a pot. Add 1 pint of boiling water and cover to keep in the volatile oils. Steep for 10 minutes, and strain, a little honey can be added if liked.

Indigestion

put 1 teaspoon of dried lemon balm and peppermint or a few fresh leaves of both, plus 1 teaspoon of dried camomile flowers and allow to steep for at least 10 minutes. Strain and drink after each meal.

De-stressing Tea

1 teaspoon of dried wild oats, liquorice, borage and vervain into a tea pot, fill with boiling water and infuse 10 minutes. Strain and drink 1 cup three times a day. (Note: avoid liquorice if you have high blood pressure).

Generally herbal teas are very mild and quite safe but it is always as well to remember that they also have a medicinal effect and to respect their power. As a general rule, change the type of medicinal herbal tea you drink once a month or so and don't drink more than 3 cups of the same tea in any one day.

Bags of dried herbs are available in various sizes from Hansa by special order.