When you’re not feeling at your best it’s all too easy to hit up the pharmacy and taking over the counter medicines, but if you’re beginning to think you’d like to start taking a little extra care of your liver and try to reduce your dependency on the likes of ibuprofen and paracetamol, then this blog’s for you.
While you absolutely should take any medication your doctor has prescribed for you for more serious conditions, there are some great alternatives out there for everyday aches and pains. We take a look at some natural alternatives that might help your body out the natural way.
Chamomile
This flower is more than just a pretty face. You’ll know if you drink it in tea that it has a natural sedative effect, perfect for helping you wind down after a long and stressful day. Used as a cold compress, chamomile is also effective at reducing swelling and inflammation and has a positive effect on wounds.
It’s widely used across Europe, so pick up a box of your favourite tea bags and use them hot or cold for a great night’s sleep or to help heal that injury and reduce swelling.
Echinacea
Many people will tell that you a dose of this a day will help stave off colds and flu or at the very least help your body fight back against the viruses that cause them.
The jury is still out on the true effectiveness of this plant but it’s enduring popularity looks set to continue.
Image courtesy of Pixabay: CC0 licence
Senna
A natural medicine that has been shown to be very effective when it comes to treating constipation. Available in its natural form or as a combination of coloxyl with senna this plant is one that can be relied upon to bring relief from this painful condition. Always read through the instructions before taking it.
Saint John’s Wort
This powerful herb has been used as an antidepressant for many years. Its users report an upturn in mood but it can be hard to determine the correct dose. Do not replace your current medicine with Saint John’s Wort without first talking to your doctor.
This Mediterranean plant has been used for many medical conditions but is mainly used to treat liver conditions. Studies have shown some early results and research is ongoing in its use against cancer and in reducing cholesterol.
Ginko Leaf Extract
This plant has been popular for hundreds of years and has been used to treat everything from asthma to tinnitus. It’s also said to help improve brain function and memory. Only the leaf should be used as ginko seeds are highly toxic. This extract can affect other medicine so always check with your doctor before taking ginko in any form.
Your body deserves the best and you’re looking for safe and effective alternatives to mainstream medicine. Take a trip to your nearest natural health store and see what give your body a helping hand, the natural way.