In the world of DIY beauty, there are some unconventional, highly unique skin care methods. Some involve essential oils and herbs, while others focus on rubbing mud or ice on the face. Because there are numerous beneficial compounds in plants, we suggest trying an herbal face steam to reap those benefits. 

While a facial steam may be helpful in getting rid of congestion or supporting the upper respiratory system, an herbal face steam is like a natural facial. It is very simple and does not require a single piece of fancy equipment. All you need is a large bowl and the herbs of your choosing. You can use a combination of herbs, or just one that you prefer. 

The Best Herbs For A Face Steam

There are many plants with properties that promote healthy skin. You may have some of these herbs in dried form in your spice rack or pantry. The only thing you need to consider is whether you are allergic to specific herbs, as some can cause irritation. Here are some great herbs to use in a face steam:

• Lavender flowers: Soothing and calming to the skin, lavender flowers exhibit natural anti-inflammatory properties that may help repair damaged skin. The aroma is very calming as well, so adding them to a face steam before bed may help promote better sleep. 
• Calendula flowers: They offer antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which is why they have a long history of use in folk medicine for healing damaged skin and wounds.
• Rose petals: In addition to their potent aromatherapy benefits, rose petals have a long history of use for enhancing the appearance of skin. A 2015 study found that rose petals improved skin elasticity and reduced wrinkles. 
• Echinacea: Echinacea is a common ingredient in many immune supplements and teas. The flowers can be used topically for numerous skin complaints, including varicose veins, damaged skin, and eczema. Echinacea’s anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral properties are also helpful for those with acne. 
• Mint leaves: Very refreshing and invigorating, mint  works to relax arteries and stimulate circulation. Mint is also rich in numerous vitamins and minerals that dry skin craves.
• Helichrysum: This herb has beautiful yellow flowers that exhibit potent skin-enhancing properties. If you have really dry skin, pair this astringent herb with marshmallow to help enhance moisture. A 2020 study examined a night cream that contained helichrysum and found it was able to significantly improve hyperpigmentation, UV spots, and wrinkles. 

How To Do An Herbal Face Steam

You may want to use herbs that are gentler on the skin than strong oils that may irritate the skin or eyes. You don’t need a fancy facial steam machine or anything like that. Get a bowl or pot, the herbs, boiling water, and a towel to drape over your head and bowl. A quick reminder: do not put your face too close to the hot water, as the steam can burn the skin. 

Rejuvenating Herbal Face Steam 

Ingredients:  

• 2 cups filtered water
• 1 tbsp lavender flowers
• 1 tbsp horsetail
• 1 tbsp peppermint leaf
• 1 tbsp chamomile flowers
• 1 tbsp calendula flowers
• 1 lemon, sliced

Instructions:

• Place the water, herbs, and lemon slices in a clean pot and bring it to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Keep the lid on the pot to preserve more of the volatile oils from the herbs. 
• Once boiling, turn off the heat and remove the pot. You can pour the contents into a heat-safe bowl, or place the pot on a potholder on your countertop. 
• Lean over the pot or bowl and drape a towel over your head to create a steam room for your face. Make sure not to put your face too close to the water. Once the pot is done steaming, your face steam is over.

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Flu season is approaching and the best defense starts before you feel run down. Supporting your immune system begins with daily habits: nourishing foods like citrus fruits, berries, leafy greens, garlic, ginger, and turmeric help support your body’s natural defenses. Herbal support matters too. Ingredients like echinacea, elderberry, oregano, and black seed have been traditionally used to support immune health and overall wellness. Add herbal teas, stay hydrated, prioritize quality sleep, and give your body the tools it needs to function at its best. Don’t wait until you’re sick to take action. Build your immune system now so it can support you all season long.

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Although these a wellness shot is tiny, it packs a mighty punch. You are probably used to seeing ginger turmeric wellness shots, especially in health food stores, such as Whole Foods. Those are amazing anti-inflammatory and immune-supporting little shots, but they can be a little spicy, especially for the uninitiated. While ginger and turmeric receive a lot of attention regarding immune health, elderberry deserves equal, if not more, attention.

There are elderberry gummies, elderberry syrup, and even elderberry kombucha. Why can’t there be elderberry wellness shots? Thing of this recipe as a concentrated version of all of those recipes. You can use fresh or dried elderberries for this recipes, but you have to cook them first because they contain cyanogenic glycosides. Although they are not poisonous, they can be toxic and cause digestive discomfort, especially in people with sensitive digestive systems. The safest way to consume elderberries is to make sure that they are cooked first.

Although these shots have a vibrant purple hue because of the elderberry, the taste does not come from elderberries. In fact, elderberry doesn’t really have much of a flavor, which is why elderberry syrups and such are flavored by other ingredients, such as lemon, cinnamon, and ginger. Lemon provides vitamin C, which helps control inflammation and increase nutrient absorption. Finally, these shots contain echinacea, which, like elderberries, may help reduce the length and severity of viral illness, especially when it comes to bacterial infections. So although these wellness shots won’t cure an illness, they may help enhance immunity and improve recovery time.

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This week, we’ll be learning the history behind the Echinacea. Allow History of Herbs to take you on an educational journey to explore the secrets of our most precious herbs and plants. Dive into a world where herbs reign supreme, and learn about the historical importance of popular herbs that exhibit powerful health benefits.

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Herbal extract that works to naturally boost and fortify the immune system.

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Herbal extract containing 3 types of Echinacea root, Angustifolia, Pallida, and Purpurea that helps to boost the immune system.

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The winter months provide the perfect storm of viral traps. A cough, head cold, or the dreaded coronavirus is waiting around every corner. The best way to make it through the cold without catching a cold is by keeping your immune system strong. COVID-19 safety measures make everyone more cautious about their healthy and safety, which helps keep them safe from other viruses. Sometimes, though, you just need to boost your health, herbal style. 

Alternative healing modalities have kept people healthy for thousands of years. Various herbs contain immune-boosting properties that give the body a helping hand when it encounters pathogens. The herbs in this article are essentially immunostimulants, also known as immune stimulants, which help the body resist illness after exposure to a pathogen. They enhance the body’s antimicrobial efforts to activate white blood cell activity. Keep reading which immune stimulants can help you fight pathogens and the common cold. 

Japanese Honeysuckle

Commonly made into tinctures, syrups, poultices, and compresses, Japanese honeysuckle is one of the most widely used medicinal herbs in the world. Its popularity among Western herbalists is relatively new, but Chinese herbalists have been using it for many years. Historically, herbalists used it to treat influenza and related symptoms like sore throat or stuffy nose. According to a 2015 study, scientists concluded that Japanese honeysuckle may contain a natural product that helps suppress viral infection. 

Elderberry

Recently, elderberry is the talk of the town, and you’ve likely heard about it. It contains powerful antibacterial, antimicrobial, and anti-fungal properties, giving your immune system a helping hand. Some studies have even found that it effectively treats the cold and flu. You can find it in the form of tea, extracts, tinctures, or supplements. There’s no need to chug a whole bottle of elderberry extract, though; a teaspoon at a time will do you good. 

Japanese Catnip

No, this is not the stuff you give to your cat. Japanese catnip is primarily found in mainland China and it contains numerous beneficial compounds, including menthol, schizonodiol, and cineole. Menthol is the primary compound in the mint plant, so this herb has similar health properties to mint. Tradition Chinese Medicine (TCM) used this herb to help reduce chills, treat common cold symptoms, stop bleeding, reduce fevers, and soothe headaches. Recent studies found that the antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties in Japanese catnip may reduce common cold symptoms. 

Echinacea

When it comes to immune function, the one herb you should know about is echinacea. This readily available herb comes in the form of supplements, tinctures, teas, or extracts. It is an immune-stimulating herb that is safe and effective against the common cold. A 2015 meta-analysis found that echinacea is beneficial for people with low immune function, and that it can reduce cold symptoms by 35 percent. Echinacea is most effective if you use it when you experience the first sign of a cold symptom. 

Andographis

Often referred to as green chiretta, andographis is a flowering herb that has historical use in Ayurveda and TCM. These forms of herbal medicine consider it to be an ancient healing herb that has a cooling and cleansing effect on the body. Two plant studies found that adographis contains antiviral and antibacterial properties, both of which are necessary to fight off common cold symptoms. One study found that andographis extract may increase a person’s white blood cell count to boost immune function. Another study found that it may help relieve upper respiratory tract infections and cold symptoms like runny nose or sore throat. 

Prickly Ash

You may be less familiar with this herb, despite the fact that it is an excellent immune stimulant. Prickly ash was commonly used by the Native Americans to help boost lymphatic drainage and increase circulation. The branches and trunk of the plant have serious thorns, but the internal bark and leaves have myriad medicinal properties. Be warned that this herb has a strong taste, and it can even make your tongue feel tingly. It’s best to take this in small doses to encourage lymphatic drainage and stimulate circulation.

Balloon Flower

This flower pops if it contains too much air. Not really, but they bloom in late summer and have attractive, striking purple flowers. Used in TCM, balloon flower helps to boost immune function, strengthen lung power, rid the body of phlegm, and reduce the duration of cold symptoms. Experts attribute these abilities to the powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. The active compounds help to open the airways and maintain healthy mucus levels. This can be great if you are combating cold symptoms like coughing, congestion, or shortness of breath. 

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Echinacea is almost synonymous with the common cold. It is a powerful, world-renowned, immune-boosting herb that benefits bodily health unlike most plants in existence. The Native Americans used it for centuries to remedy various illnesses, and now it is regularly prescribed to treat pain, reduce inflammation, get rid of migraines, and remedy the common cold or flu. Now you see why everyone loves it so much!

What Is Echinacea?

According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, there are nine known species of Echinacea, all of which are native to North America. Of these nine species, only three are used in herbal supplements: Echinacea angustifolia, Echinacea pallida, and Echinacea purpurea. Extracts, teas, capsules, tablets, and tinctures are created from the roots and aboveground parts of the plant. In fact, medical experts held Echinacea in high regard before the introduction of antibiotics in 1950. Antibiotics became all the rage and medicine shifted away from herbal remedies. People did not forget about Echinacea, though, and these health benefits prove that.

Health Benefits Of Echinacea

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Inflammation is the body’s natural response to defend itself from foreign invaders, but inflammation can last longer than necessary. If there is chronic inflammation in the body, the risk of developing chronic diseases increases. Several studies have identified the anti-inflammatory properties of Echinacea. One 30-day study found that adults, who had osteoarthritis, experienced reduced inflammation, pain, and swelling after taking daily Echinacea supplements. Additionally, the same adults did not respond positively to non-steroidal inflammatory drugs.

Immune Booster

A meta-analysis published in the Lancet Infectious Diseases journal evaluated Echinacea from 14 studies. The results were that Echinacea reduces the risk of catching a common cold by 58%, and that it reduces the duration of the common cold by about one and a half days. Other studies found that the dosage of Echinacea can influence the immune system. Ten milligrams of Echinacea per one kilogram of body weight, taken over a 10-day period, helps to boost immunity.

Anxiety Relief

Anxiety is one of the most common mental health issues in the United States, affecting about one in every five American adults. Within recent years, people have started to use Echinacea for anxiety relief. Research has discovered that Echinacea contains alkamides, rosmarinic acid, and caffeic acid, all of which help reduce anxious feelings. Initial research is promising, but more research is needed to confirm the positive effects of Echinacea on anxiety.

Cancer Fighter

Did you know that Echinacea is currently used as an alternative cancer treatment? The recommendation is to take it alongside, or in place of, conventional therapy. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) published a study that examined the effects of Echinacea on brain cancer. The results indicated that Echinacea’s phytochemicals might be valuable in the quest to combat tumors. This research has sparked more interest in the power of phytochemicals from other plants and herbs.

Fights Infection

As you’ve gathered by now, Echinacea is a very powerful herb. Several studies found that it is beneficial for a variety of infections, especially infections that relate to skin issues. Groups of women found that Echinacea was 16% more effective at fighting recurring vaginal infections than taking medicine. Echinacea may also help remedy malaria, syphilis, gum disease, bloodstream infections, and vaginal yeast infections.

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Viruses or bacterial infections are passed around more quickly than social media memes or hot celebrity gossip. The most common viral strains typically induce sore throats or common colds, and the symptoms that occur, while they can be harmless, are quite simply annoying.

Even though common colds and sore throats can be harmless, these conditions result from some sort of infection or virus. If the symptoms go untreated, they can persist longer than necessary and may possibly worsen to more serious illnesses that might keep you in bed for a few weeks. You don’t want to be the person who develops bronchitis because he/she didn’t gargle with salt water, drink tea, or perform a Neti pot nasal rinse. These remedies are easy to do and can provide sore throat relief in an instant without the need for medications. Let’s explore how to get rid of a sore throat below.

Raw Honey

Raw honey has been one of the most popular sore throat remedy choices for centuries. Not only does it soothe the pain, but it also has strong antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, which help keep the germs at bay. In doing so, this allows your immune system to function more efficiently.

Salt Water

Salt water is one of the best home remedies for a sore throat, and almost everyone has tried it. There is no denying the fact that gargling salt water provides immediate relief by killing the bacteria that is causing the inflammation in the first place. When you gargle with salt water, make sure that the water is hot, but not boiling, because the heat helps to kill bacteria.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is another sore throat treatment that has been used for hundreds of years, especially in Chinese culture. Cinnamon is not only delicious in culinary creations, but is also full of antioxidants and has numerous antibacterial properties, which help to battle the viruses or bacteria that cause sore throats.

Echinacea

Echinacea is a plant that has been shown to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties, making it an excellent candidate to use when you have a sore throat. You can buy it in most pharmacies as a supplement, tincture, or in the form of a soothing tea that has long-lasting benefits.

Stay Hydrated With Water and Tea

We already discussed a few different tea options on this list, but one of the simplest sore throat remedies you should keep in mind is hydrating with water. The one-two punch combination of water and hot tea helps your body fight off bacteria by keeping the throat moist. At the same time, you also provide enough fluids to the immune system, which is essential for it to function properly. You can find a selection of herbal teas by clicking here, or find herbal caffeine-free teas in most grocery stores.

Herbs

Besides the Echinacea that we previously discussed, there are a host of herbs with beneficial qualities, which might be just what you need when trying to figure out how to soothe a sore throat. The most popular herbs for a sore throat include chamomile, mint, marshmallow root, sage, and thyme. Get your hands on these and brew some teas!

Baking Soda Gargle

If you don’t want to gargle saltwater, try using baking soda, as it has additional antibacterial and soothing properties, which can help make your treatment more effective. You can even consider mixing small amounts of both salt and baking soda to maximize your healing efforts. Try not to do this too much if you have sensitive teeth or gums because the baking soda can cause some mild irritation.

Lemon and Ginger

Mixing lemon and ginger with hot water can often be a more pleasant alternative to gargling saltwater, especially when you consider that it may have just as positive of an effect. Lemon can help break up the mucus in your throat, reducing the discomfort, while the antibacterial qualities of ginger will assist your body in fighting off the bacteria.

Apple Cider Vinegar

You’ve probably already heard about the countless benefits of apple cider vinegar, but you may not have known that it’s also one of the most effective remedies for a sore throat. Just like with lemons, the acidic content of apple cider vinegar helps break down mucus and clear up congestion, which offers natural relief. Don’t drink it straight because that can burn the esophagus. Mix one tablespoon in a glass of lukewarm water and drink it when your throat is irritated.

Humidifiers

Sometimes, the best sore throat remedy is the helping prevent a sore throat in the first place. That’s why a humidifier is a great option! One of the most common reasons for a sore throat is dry air, because it dries out the throat and makes it more susceptible to bacteria.

Essential Oils

Essential oils have been used for centuries to treat various ailments, so it comes as no surprise that they are excellent for sore throats as well. Before we continue, it is not recommended to consume essential oils; rather, the aroma is going to benefit the sore throat and promote healing. Add a few drops of essential oil (eucalyptus and tea tree are great) to a large bowl of boiling water, hover your face over the bowl, and drape a towel over your head and the bowl to create a tent. Inhale the vapors to not only soothe your throat, but to also clear up congestion and kill bacteria.

Rest

Finally, no matter what treatments you end up using, the most important thing is to allow yourself time to rest in order to let the body do its job. If you’re suffering from a sore throat and continue to overexert yourself, it will be tough to beat the infection quickly, and you may end up developing a more serious condition or symptoms that could take much longer to go away. It’s better to give yourself at least a couple of days of rest, whenever possible. Sleep is the best way to rejuvenate the body.

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Viruses exist everywhere, and they can cause health conditions like hepatitis, mononucleosis, HIV, the flu, and even the common cold. While many people commonly opt to get an annual flu shot (influenza vaccination), studies have shown that it is only 80% effective, due to the fact that this virus has mutating strains. Additionally, vaccines don’t properly educate your immune system and they can contain preservatives and chemicals. Wouldn’t it be better if you could use all natural herbs to fight off viruses without harming the body?

Facts About Viruses

A virus is a microscopic organism that can exist almost anywhere on the planet. Viruses can spread through sneezing, coughing, person-to-person contact, sexual contact, or by entering the body through food or water. More often than not, viruses infect plants, fungi, animals, humans, and bacteria. Some viruses are fatal, while others can make you feel ill for only a day or so. Consisting of genetic material, viruses cannot replicate without a host, which classifies them as parasites. Viruses are the most abundant biological entities on the planet.

So What Do Antiviral Herbs Do?

When you consume foods that keep your immune system strong, you have a better chance of fighting off viruses. Antiviral herbs can help to inhibit the development of viruses because they boost the immune system, which helps the body attack viral pathogens. Antiviral herbs also contain anti-inflammatory, cardiovascular, and healthy digestive properties.

#1: Echinacea

Echinacea is an amazing herb that is loaded with antimicrobial properties, which are great for the immune system. All varieties of the echinacea herb have phenol compounds. At a base level, phenols protect plants from UV radiation damage and infections. The active substances in phenols control enzymes and cell receptors, and their active antioxidants make them great for keeping human cells healthy.

#2: Astragalus Root

Astragalus root has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for hundreds of years, primarily for enhancing immune function. Several studies have shown that astragalus’ antiviral properties help to stimulate the immune system and inhibit the development of the common cold or flu.

#3: Ginger

If you keep up with our web content, you know that we love ginger. One of our favorite things about ginger is that it helps to cleanse the lymphatic system, also known as the body’s sewage system. It also helps to flush toxins from your organs. Did we mention that ginger prevents the body from accumulating toxins that can make you sick or susceptible to bacterial infections? Well, it does that too!

#4: Oil of Oregano

While fresh oregano is tasty, the health benefits come alive when it is distilled to extract the essential oil. Oil of oregano contains carvacrol and thymol, both of which have antibacterial and antifungal properties. Carvacrol is responsible for reversing viral infections, allergies, parasites, and reducing inflammation.

#5: Cat’s Claw

This herb has a lot of bark, not meow! Okay…that was terrible. People in South America have actually used the bark of cat’s claw as a natural remedy for fevers and digestive conditions, like dysentery, for centuries. Cat’s claw has powerful antiviral properties that can be used to help reduce one’s viral load, and early studies show that it may be beneficial for HIV patients, but more research needs to be conducted.

#6: Elderberry

Elderberry has been popularly used in many cultures for its ability to help fight viral infections, herpes, influenza, and bacterial infections. Almost all of the elderberry plant is usable. You can use the bark, leaves, roots, and flowers, which can be beneficial to brew into a tea when you have the flu. Make an elderberry syrup to boost immune function by clicking here.

#7: Olive Leaf

The antiviral properties of olive leaf have been known to fight back against the common cold and more serious viruses like meningitis, pneumonia, hepatitis B, malaria, gonorrhea, and candida symptoms. Recent research has shown that the extract of olive leaf can fight against viruses that cause influenza or respiratory infections. Olive leaf extract’s compounds can also kill invading organisms, making it so viruses cannot replicate to spread infection.

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