Uses: Calendula has long been used to relieve inflammation of the mouth, throat, and stomach; popular as a topical cream or ointment to relieve rashes and irritation and to help heal wounds.
Sage (Salvia officinalis) Uses: Helps with sore throat, cough, and colds; recognized in Germany as a treatment for excessive sweating; studies show it can help reduce menopausal hot flashes and night sweats. When burned, it’s popular for cleansing houses of negative energy.
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) Uses: Highly regarded for relieving coughs, colds, and congestion; rich in volatile oils that have significant antimicrobial and antispasmodic activity
Horse Chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum) Uses: Seed extracts shown to be highly effective for treatment of varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency (blood pools in lower leg veins after standing or sitting); topical gels can reduce swelling and tenderness due to injury.
Catnip (Nepeta cataria) Uses: Soothes an upset stomach; reduced anxiety and tension. It is also smokeable to create a calming, euphoric feeling. (Just don’t make your cat jealous)
Elderberry (Sambucus nigra, S. canadensis) Uses: Elderberry flowers have been valued as a remedy for colds and fever for centuries; fruit extracts have been shown to have significant antiviral activity, especially against the flu.
Garlic (Allium sativum) Uses: Potent antimicrobial; often used to combat colds, ease sinus congestion, and stave off traveler’s diarrhea. Studies show that regular use can help gently lower blood pressure.
Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius; P. ginseng) Uses: Helps relieve and prevent mental and physical fatigue; shown to reduce the frequency and severity of colds; possibly beneficial for erectile dysfunction