I natural remedies they are an easy way to solve the most common health problems by reducing the consumption of traditional drugs. Their healing properties have been used since ancient times, since nature has always been a great source of inspiration, also to keep the body in shape. However, it is important to know that natural is not necessarily synonymous with without side effects: for this reason it is always advisable to ask for a medical opinion before taking them.
In addition, saying natural remedies means everything and nothing, as there is a vast world of specific preparations and different ways of taking, in which it is easy to get lost. So let’s see some useful information about the most famous types of green remedies and the indications on the recommended uses.
What are the natural remedies
Some natural remedies are so-called superfood, special foods whose nutrients are of fundamental importance to ensure the body the right energy or the balance necessary to function at its best. The green tea is to be counted among these. It is in fact a source of antioxidants and polyphenolic compounds with renowned anti-inflammatory effects.
But how can we not also mention the kefyr, a fermented drink usually based on milk (although there are vegetable variants), which has become increasingly famous. The why is not difficult to understand. In fact, in addition to probiotics, it also contains B vitamins, proteins, calcium and potassium and its consumption is a panacea for the immune system.
Let’s not forget to include in the list of super foods too algae, fundamental in Asian cuisine, but increasingly popular in the rest of the world as well. Compared to terrestrial vegetables, algae boast, in addition to vitamin K and fiber, also a rich amount of iodine and tyrosine.
But in most cases, natural remedies are related to phytotherapy, that is, they exploit the healing properties contained in medicinal plants. From the latter can also be drawn essential oils, whose application affects a wide range of pathologies and disorders and can represent a central element in the treatments provided by thearomatherapy.
The origin of the different natural remedies often has its roots in popular wisdom, explaining the frequent associations between these solutions and the “grandmother’s remedies“, As well as belonging for example to traditional oriental medicines or to nutraceutica, an approach that sees food as real “drugs” for the health of the body.
Benefits fororganism
I benefits for the organism deriving from the use of natural remedies can be many, often associated with the particular pathology treated. Some guarantee aenergizing action, which helps to overcome some moments of particular stress for the organism or to recover after an illness, while others are appreciated for the stimulation of the immune system and the ability to act against certain bacterial or viral infections.
More generally, natural remedies are highly appreciated for the possibility of treating various ailments or ailments by avoiding the use of drugs. Do not forget the beneficial effects of natural remedies as for the removal of toxins, often accumulated following a wrong diet or unhealthy lifestyles.
Thanks to these solutions according to nature it is also possible to carry out an activity of prevention compared to some ailments, especially if the intake is regular and the recommended dosages are followed to the letter.
Not in all cases, however, an exclusively natural-based treatment is allowed. Some specific pathologies or a particular state of severity of the latter, must be treated in an alternative way, with specific pharmacological therapies. But if the attending physician agrees, the treatments can be integrated with green products that are friendly to wellbeing.
How and when to use them
Thanks to natural remedies it is possible to treat various ailments and ailments. Among the most common are the winter ones, above all cold, influenza, cough e sore throat, which are addressed thanks to solutions that alleviate the symptoms and guarantee a faster recovery of the organism.
Other ailments are those that involve thedigestive system, For example stomach ache, gastritis, slow digestion. All problems that can be solved thanks to some natural remedies. Here are some explanations on the best ones to try.
Natural remedies for seasonal ailments
Sore throat, low-grade fever and fatigue are typical symptoms of parainfluenza syndromes, which appear in the autumn period. The best grandma’s remedies to treat these ailments are:
- Infusions – Teas made with ingredients such as licorice and slippery elm, very suitable for laryngitis, can help reduce irritation.
- Miele – its antibacterial and emollient properties can soothe sore throats and calm coughs.
- Echinacea – can reduce the duration of cold symptoms, particularly if used during the first few days. It can be taken as a herbal tea or through specially designed herbal preparations.
- Elderberry syrup – it has antiviral properties, which make it useful in case of colds and flu. The grandmothers prepared it at home, but today it can be found in parapharmacies and herbalists.
- Pelargonium – it is a plant used in some natural remedies for the treatment of colds with cough and reduces the duration and severity of symptoms.
Indigestion or slow digestion
Raise your hand if you haven’t felt the classic weight on your stomach at least once in your life. A bit of everyone, let’s face it and some of us also very often. In these cases, here are the natural remedies to try:
- Infusion of mint – mint is a delicious refreshing herb, which can be added to common teas and herbal teas, but also used alone for infusions and decoctions. The doses for one person are 1 cup of boiling water in which to infuse a tablespoon of dried mint or a dozen chopped fresh mint leaves.
- Lemon and bay leaf decoction – Like the mint infusion, the decoction of bay leaf and lemon is also a digestive panacea that must be tried. In this case, bring to a boil a cup of water in which we will have put two fresh bay leaves and two slices of lemon. When the water begins to boil, lower the heat to low and cover, keeping it on the fire for about ten minutes, then filter and drink.
- Ginger – it is excellent both in powder form, both freshly made into small pieces, and as a candied fruit and lends itself well to being used as an infusion. In addition to stimulating digestion, it is excellent in case of nausea. Ginger is also very suitable for pregnant women suffering from hyperemesis gravidarum.
Anxiety and tension: the best green remedies
Stress and anxiety are the enemies of our century. In a day we have so many things to think about, so many problems to solve, that tension and agitation often appear. For quieter days and peaceful nights, let’s try some of these remedies:
- Meditation and breathing – Meditation, yoga and diaphragmatic breathing exercises are the basis of an iron mental health. If we don’t have time to go to a gym that offers special courses, we can still turn to professionals for distance classes. Last but not least, certified and serious smartphone apps are also welcome, which help us find calm with guided exercises and background relaxation music.
- Exercise – regular physical activity is able to counteract stress by reducing the production of cortisol. In addition, training in a healthy and continuous way also improves the quality of sleep.
- Aromatherapy – there are essential oils that should never be missing in the bathroom cabinet. If stress is our main enemy, the essences of lavender, neroli, ylang ylang, sweet orange, sandalwood, frankincense, rose and geranium, are excellent allies to defeat it. We can pour them into the essence burner or dilute them in the bath water to relax nerves and regain psychophysical balance.
- Infusions – chamomile, valerian, hawthorn and lemon balm are medical herbs with calming and sedative properties and can be used to promote sleep and mental relaxation.
- Supplements – if the doctor agrees, there are some natural supplements that can help us regain emotional stability. Those based on omega-3 fatty acids, according to some scientific studies, would be able to reduce anxiety. Then, if we want to rely on a cornerstone of Ayurvedic medicine, Ashwagandha is one of the most famous and powerful herbs for reducing stress and agitation.