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Herbs & remedies

Know the plant before you use it

Short, honest monographs: where each herb comes from, how it has traditionally been used, what studies suggest, how to prepare it at home, and who should avoid it.

Dried medicinal herbs and flowers on cream linen

Plant index

Chamomile

Matricaria recutita

Evening calm, digestive ease

Best as a covered infusion; avoid with known Asteraceae allergy.

Nettle

Urtica dioica

Mineral-rich spring tonic

Harvest young tops before flowering; cook or dry to remove the sting.

Lemon balm

Melissa officinalis

Stress and restlessness

Volatile oils fade fast — use fresh or recently dried leaf.

Calendula

Calendula officinalis

Skin soothing, infused oils

Dry the petals thoroughly before infusing to prevent spoilage.

Elderflower

Sambucus nigra

Seasonal cordials and teas

Never use raw berries or green plant parts — always cook the fruit.

Ashwagandha

Withania somnifera

Perceived stress, sleep quality

Check interactions with thyroid and sedative medication first.

A note on safety

Herbs are active. They interact with medication, and some are unsuitable during pregnancy, breastfeeding or with specific conditions. Everything here is educational — speak to a qualified practitioner before starting anything daily.

Herbal reading