Did you know that the use of medicinal plants date back to the Paleolithic age, or about 60,000 years ago?

Mother Nature created powerful herbs that have been used for centuries as natural remedies to promote good health and wellbeing. Here we reveal the most popular medicinal herbs and their benefits.

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1. Chamomile
Many people enjoy a warm mug of chamomile tea for their natural sleep cycles. It can also help calm nerves and stomach.

This medicinal herb contains flavonoids, a type of nutrient found naturally in many fruits and veggies that help regulate cellular activity and banish free radicals.

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2. Yarrow
Archillea millefolium, otherwise known as yarrow. If you could only pick a couple or so plants to protect your health, Yarrow should be one of them. Yarrow is a health strengthening bitter herb that has been used for health support since well before recorded history. Its bitter components help stimulate digestion, relax stomach muscles, and support the mucus membranes of the digestive tract and bile production from the gallbladder. 

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3. Echinacea
Echinacea is a native North American herb contains compounds for activating immune system function and strengthening the body to have better resistance to immune challenges. Echinacea also promotes respiratory system health. Several species of the echinacea plant are used to create natural supplements from its flower, leaves and root.

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4. Gingko
Known for its ability to support brain health, gingko is one of the oldest homeopathic herbs in Chinese medicine. Its leaves are derived from the gingko tree, which is considered a living fossil. These trees can live up to 3,000 years. This Southeast Asian native herb is a highly popular cooking spice. It can help boost overall immunity. Ginger also supports your immune system’s response in your respiratory system and helps out during immune system challenges by warming your body from the inside out and helping you to sweat. Its antioxidant action helps to support and protect all aspects of your health.

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5. Cilantro
While many people enjoy cilantro as a garnish on their Thai or Mexican dishes, this popular herb offers much more than just a punch of flavor. It also provides digestive support by stimulating the release of digestive enzymes after a meal.

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6. Garlic
Did you know that the average American consumes about two pounds of garlic per year? Garlic possesses properties that help protect the body and contribute to overall health. It also contains a myriad of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, such as iron, zinc, magnesium, potassium, and vitamin C.

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7. Lavender
Lavender is known for its lovely aroma and for its ability to keep the skin soft and clear. The name is derived from the French word for washing, and some of the earliest antimicrobial soaps were made from lavender. Lavender is celebrated for its calming properties and has been used for thousands of years to temporarily relieve mild anxiety. 

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8. Milk Thistle
Also known as Silybum marianum, this common herb is used to promote liver health. Its active ingredient is silymarin which has antioxidant properties that give the immune system an extra boost. Because of its liver building benefits, it helps support healthy blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

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9. Turmeric
Turmeric originates in India where it dates back nearly 4,000 years when it was used as a culinary spice. It also had religious significance in Buddhism, Hinduism and other cultures throughout Southeast Asia. It contains the chemical curcumin which has been found beneficial to heart and gut health, joint and muscle support, and increased immune function.

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10. Lemon Balm
The fragrant flowers and leaves of lemon balm have a relaxing effect on the nervous system and stomach. Lemon balm was used as far back as the Middle Ages to support a healthy appetite and promote natural sleep rhythms.