We are going to be talking about the best herbs for beginners. However, I’m going to start by saying while there is a difference between herbs and spices, we are mostly going to ignore it. For example, some may argue that things like cayenne are strictly a spice and garlic is a vegetable. BUT, for the sake of this article, we are going to refer to them as herbs as they have profound medicinal properties. I mean, who have you ever heard that calls garlic a vegetable. It is a vegetable, none the less, but you get the idea.
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You will find some people use the terms spices and herbs interchangeably, but I at least want to make it clear that there ARE differences (most specifically what part of the plan is used), but sometimes we focus on certain properties which makes them line up better with being called an herb vs a spice. Generally, when one thinks of a spice, they think of flavor rather than something potentially medicinal.
So let’s move on, shall we? Herbs it is!
When it comes to choosing the best herbs for beginners, it can be a little overwhelming. With so many herbs to choose from, you’re probably wondering which ones are the best to start with. You’re in the right place because I’ve rounded up the top three for you to consider using on your journey to natural health and wellness.
Why am I only introducing you to three herbs?
Simply put, when you’re first starting with using herbs beyond just popping them in your next batch of potato soup or morning tea, there can be a bit of a learning curve. As to not overwhelm you, I suggest starting with a few herbs at a time and learn all you can about them.
Look for recipes to make with them (lots included below), and become used to using them in your everyday health and wellness routine.
Herbs for Beginners
You’ve most likely landed on this article for 1 of 3 reasons:
- You’re interested in using herbs.
- You’re wondering where to start with using herbs.
- You want more control over your health and wellness.
With the increased push of pharmaceuticals from our modern-medicinal system, more people are realizing that they have more control over their health and wellness than they thought. There was a time when doctors were more concerned about actually curing patients, whereas now there seems to only be the concern for treating symptoms.
This has increased people’s interest in using herbs as part of their holistic wellness regimen, and rightfully so. I talk more about why to choose herbal remedies in the article Why Include Herbal Remedies in Your Health Regime, but in the meantime, let’s continue with the best herbs to use when you’re first starting out in your herbal journey.
Best Herbs to Use for Beginners
No worries if you’re not able to attend an official school of herbal medicine. You’ll notice with some of the herbs I recommend below, they are herbs or spices that you may already have in your kitchen. When used correctly, you’ll reap the medicinal benefits for your health!
Cayenne Pepper (capsicum annuum, capsicum spp.)
This spice is so powerful, it has been proven to be a legit pain reliever for joint issues including arthritis, bursitis, and muscle aches. You may be shocked to learn that this is one of the main ingredients in over-the-counter pain relief remedies. The constituent that gives this spice its powerful punch is known as capsaicin.
Capsaicin is linked to heart health support, increasing circulation, and endorphin releasing (which is super helpful for the body). There is a caution that comes with using this spice. Because it’s a hot spice, you should be very careful when using it. Don’t go for your eyes after working with it and start with less to test for hotness tolerance.
For starters, consider creating:
As these creations suggest, you can get the cayenne pepper’s benefits by drinking or rubbing directly on problem areas (again, staying clear of sensitive spots such as the eyes, nose, and private areas).
Garlic (allium sativum)
Another culinary favorite, garlic has medical properties that have been used for ages. You’ve most likely seen it as the go-to for cold and flu remedies, but it also works wonders for digestion and boosting the immune system. As icky as this may sound, it’s antimicrobial, antiseptic, and vermifuge properties make it perfect for ridding the body of worms.
It’s highly known as the herb of wonder, which means cooking with it is great, but only just the start of what you can do with it! Here are a few ways to consider using garlic:
- Make a garlic honey. Simply put fresh cloves in a jar and cover them with honey. Close the top and let the infusion process begin. You’ll have garlic honey in just a few days. You can also let it sit for several weeks! Fermentation may happen, and that’s okay.
- Create garlic vinegar. Similar to the process above except you’re using raw apple cider vinegar instead of honey. Use it as a vinegar dressing for your salad or take a shot as a daily tonic.
- Make your own fire cider. This is a great immune system booster (especially during cold/flu season).
Ginger (zingiber officinale)
And yet another kitchen staple, the benefits of ginger go further than enriching the taste of a good piece of sushi. Ginger is often used as a digestive aid, especially for the expecting mother fighting nausea during the first trimester, as well as an inflammation reducer, decreases blood sugar, and works as a pain reliever.
Here are some ideas for using ginger:
- Create a ginger tea. (overall soothing)
- Make a ginger smoothie. (perfect as a detox)
- DIY ginger oil. (can also be used on your hair)
Using these three tried and true herbs in your wellness regimen is sure to give your health an awesome boost! As you become comfortable with these, slowly begin to research others to use. Before you know it, you’ll have a full arsenal of herbs in your cabinets!
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The contents of this article, made available via The Mind Body Design (Holistic Fit LLC), are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. The Content presented here is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. If you think you may be suffering from any medical condition, you should seek immediate medical attention. You should never delay seeking medical advice, disregard medical advice, or discontinue medical treatment because of information provided by The Mind Body Design (Holistic Fit LLC). Reliance on any information provided by this article is solely at your own risk. And, of course, never use an herb or essential oil without first reading the label, doing your research, or checking with a local expert.
References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5895990/
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/8-benefits-of-cayenne-pepper
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-proven-health-benefits-of-garlic
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-proven-benefits-of-ginger
