Medicinal Herbs: A Guide to Traditional Remedies & Modern Uses

The practice of using herbs for medicine dates back to the ancient times of Rome and Greece. Many of them, like spearmint, wild yam, jack-in-the-pulpit and golden seal, can be found in the United States.

St. Johns Wort

• St. Johns Wort has become a popular over-the-counter choice to relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Ginger Root

• Ginger's soothing effect on the stomach has long made it a choice to treat stomach ailments like vomiting and nausea.

Kava-Kava

• This herb is for people who seek a good night's rest, because it helps induce sleep.

Feverfew

• Feverfew acts as an anti-inflammatory that is used to treat pains like arthritis and rheumatism.

Gravel Root

• To sweat out a cold or to break a fever, drink a tea that's brewed from gravel root.

Violet

• This common household plant can be turned into medication to treat cold symptoms related to the respiratory system.