Here’s the scenario: you go to the store to get groceries for a recipe you want to make in a few days. You buy the necessary protein, grains, vegetables, or herbs to create your perfect dish. You bring these groceries home and store them. In a few days time, you pull out the ingredients to create your culinary masterpiece. There is just one problem: the herbs you purchased are slimy, brown, and no longer usable. 

Know What You’re Working With

There are two types of herbs: soft herbs and hardy herbs. In order to make these herbs last, you have to store them differently. Before you learn how to store herbs, you have to know how to differentiate hardy from soft herbs. Fortunately, this is very easy.

• Soft herbs have tender stems and delicate green leaves. The stems are edible and may taste slightly bitter. Some common soft herbs include cilantro, dill, mint, parsley, and basil.
• Hardy herbs have woody stems, which you should not chop up or eat. They do not have a pleasant taste and the flavor you want is from the leaves. Examples of hardy herbs are oregano, thyme, and rosemary. 

With the exception of basil (more on this later), most fresh herbs should be stored in the fridge. In order to make your hard or soft herbs last long in the fridge, though, you have to store them properly. That requires a small amount of preparation.

Why Do Herbs Go Bad?

If your herbs start to smell funny or the leaves turn dark, slimy, or moldy, you have to throw them out. There are a few reasons why they go bad, though, and we’ll detail them below:

• It’s possible that you chose herbs that were already going bad in the grocery store. Make sure to select herb bunches that do not have any wilted or discolored leaves. They should be very vibrant in color without any limp, discolored stems. Always do the sniff test to see if they have a pungent, fresh aroma. 
• Herbs can take a turn for the worse when exposed to too much oxygen or light. An environment with too much oxygen causes herbs to brown quickly, while too much light can lead to yellowing leaves. 
• If you do not pat the herbs dry before you store them, they will quickly become slimy and start to rot. If the leaves are too dry, they can turn brown and die. 
• Temperature is probably the main reason herbs go bad. If you store herbs in areas of the fridge that are too cold, such as the back of the top shelf, they can freeze and start to become mushy and brown. 

How To Store Soft Herbs In The Fridge

As a quick note, always wash your herbs before you store them. Some people have their own opinions about this because washing them adds moisture, which can cause them to decay. Bacteria can remain on the herbs if you don’t wash them. Just wash and dry your herbs before you put them in the fridge. 

• Remove any rubber bands or fastenings that secure your herbs in their bundles when you buy them. These things can damage your herbs. 
• Wash soft herbs in cool water to remove dirt and grime. You can do this in a large bowl until the water runs clear. 
• Dry the leaves well in a salad spinner or by putting them on paper towels/linens and then patting them dry.
• Trim about one inch from the bottoms of the stems. 
• Add the herbs stem side down in water, just like you would a bouquet of flowers. Fill a large glass about one-third of the way with water and place the herbs in the jar. Make sure the leaves do not touch the water.
• Cover herbs and the jars of water they are in with recycled bags, tucking the bags under the glass to create a tent. 
• Place them just like this in the fridge, changing the water every few days to extend longevity.

What About Basil?

Unlike cilantro, parsley, or mint, basil is very delicate and not meant for the fridge. Trim the basil stems at a 45-degree angle about one inch from the bottom. Fill a jar about half-way with water and put the basil bunch in the water, ensuring the leaves don’t touch the water. Cover with a plastic bag so that it loosely fits over the bundle in the jar. Store at room temperature and trim the stems/change the water every few days. 

How To Store Hardy Herbs

Just like soft herbs, you can store hardy herbs in the fridge. Begin by washing the herbs to remove any grime or bacteria before you do anything else, and then follow these next steps:

• Once you wash and pat the hardy herbs dry, trim about an inch off the stems. Wrap or roll the herbs in damp paper towels so that you cover them completely. 
• Place the wrapped herbs in plastic sandwich bags and store them in the fridge. 
• Without special care, hardy herbs tend to last longer in the fridge than soft herbs do. You can store them in a plastic container in the fridge if you don’t want to use plastic bags. 
• If you keep these herbs in the little plastic containers they are often sold in, they’ll last about one week in the fridge.

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If you are into the world of DIY beauty, then you are most likely familiar with rosemary oil for hair growth. Maybe this natural hair growth oil caught your attention and you want to give it a try but don’t know how to make it or what to do. It is true that rosemary oil benefits the hair, but how exactly does it contribute to regrowth and thicker hair? This article aims to highlight how to make and use rosemary oil.

Despite what the online videos say, rosemary oil for hair growth is not just another TikTok beauty trend. It is far from a new discovery, as rosemary oil is a popular hair growth remedy in many cultures around the world. That said, it is nice to see that the masses appreciate a natural way to encourage healthier hair and scalp. 

How Does Rosemary Oil Helps With Hair Growth?

Rosemary is an herb that is popular both in beauty and culinary applications. It may help to reduce headaches, insomnia, and even depression. According to research, rosemary oil contains carnosic acid, which exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity. Due to the antioxidant activity, rosemary oil helps increase capillary perfusion (blood flow) to the scalp, which may encourage hair growth. In fact, the increase in capillary perfusion that results from rosemary oil application is similar to the action of minoxidil, a chemical treatment for hair growth.

What Do The Studies Say?

Although human studies are lacking, there are many existing animal studies about the effects of rosemary oil for hair growth. One study, for example, found that topical application of rosemary oil helped to improve hair growth on mice experiencing hair growth issues from testosterone treatment. An older study from 1989 found that a combination of essential oils improved hair growth when applied to the scalp on a daily basis. These oils included rosemary, thyme, lavender, and cedarwood, but the study didn’t isolate rosemary for its hair growth abilities. 

A more recent study revealed some promising effects of rosemary oil on hair growth. The study focused on using rosemary oil to counteract male pattern baldness. Researchers compared the effects of using rosemary oil with minoxidil, an effective hair growth treatment. Patients in the study either received rosemary oil or minoxidil 2%, using each treatment for six months. At the end of the study, both the rosemary oil and minoxidil treatments proved effective for regrowing hair. Participants who used rosemary oil were less likely to experience itchy scalp than those using the minoxidil treatment. 

Rosemary Hair Growth Oil Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup cold-pressed castor oil
• 1/2 cup fractionated coconut oil (or MCT oil)
• 3/4 cup dried rosemary
• 1 tsp vitamin E oil

Instructions:

• Pour the castor oil and fractionated coconut oil into a small stainless steel saucepan and then add the dried rosemary. Add the vitamin E oil and stir the mixture, ensuring that the rosemary is submerged in the oils.
• Place the pot on the stove over medium-low heat and keep your thermometer handy. You want to infuse the benefits of rosemary into the oils without overheating them.
• To keep the oils from scorching the rosemary, keep the rosemary oil below 230º F. As the oil begins to heat up, turn off the stove, give the oil a stir, and place a lid over the saucepan to retain the heat. 
• Allow the oil to infuse away from the heat until it cools. Repeat this process once the oil cools and then continue repeating for about four to six hours. 
• During the infusion process. The rosemary may turn bright golden yellow and become very fragrant. 
• Once you let the oil mixture cool for the last time, transfer it to a mason jar and seal it tightly. Place it in a cool, dark place and let it infuse for two weeks. Give the jar a light shake every few days or so.
• At the end of the infusion process, strain the oil using a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth so that you are just left with oil. Make sure you get every last drop! Transfer the oil mixture to a dropper bottle for controlled application. You can use it directly on the scalp or incorporate this into other recipes. 

How To Use:

• Apply the rosemary oil to your scalp and massage it using your fingertips. Work your way around your entire head, making sure to apply the rosemary oil to your hairline, temples, and any other areas of thinning hair. 
• After the massage, turn your head upside down and continue massaging to divert blood flow to the scalp and hair follicles. You should feel your head start to tingle after the massage. 
• Leave the rosemary oil on for as long as you can allow and then wash your hair as normal.

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While thyme is now used as a food flavoring, it has actually been used for centuries. Ancient Egyptians used it for medical properties. While there’s only been preliminary testing, studies show that thyme contains thymol, which may neutralize bacterial, parasitic, fungal, or viral infections.

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If you make it through summer without a single mosquito bite, consider yourself one of the luckiest people in the world. Mosquitos are a nuisance, even if they don’t all spread disease. They are attracted to human blood and they leave a bump, which may not appear until hours later. Most of the time, these bites are very itchy, especially if you are more sensitive to mosquitos. 

Mosquitos require protein and iron, which they get from human blood, in order to produce eggs. They lay eggs in stagnant water, where the eggs undergo various stages of development. They finally become adult mosquitos and begin to bite people to repeat the cycle. Mosquitos can carry harmful diseases, but the likelihood of contracting one will depend on where you reside. Some of the most common diseases that mosquitos spread include:

• Malaria
• Dengue fever
• Yellow fever
• West Nile virus
• Zika virus
• Encephalitis 

Chikungunya virus

The mosquito bite itself is often very annoying and itchy, so the natural instinct is to scratch it. By scratching the bite, you increase the risk of breaking skin, which makes the bite more susceptible to bacteria. When a mosquito bites you, use the following home remedies to provide relief. 

Aloe Vera

From sunburn relief to accelerated wound healing, it seems that aloe vera can do no wrong. It exhibits anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that work to calm redness and itchiness, especially from mosquito bites. If you have access to an aloe plant, the fresh gel from inside an aloe leaf will have the most benefits. Apply it to the mosquito bite and allow it to dry. Apply two to three times a day for best results. 

Baking Soda

Baking soda has myriad uses outside the kitchen. Not only can you bake with it, but you can also use it to clean drains. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), baking soda may be able to provide relief from mosquito bites. All you have to do is make a baking soda paste by mixing one tablespoon of baking soda with water. Ideally, you want a thicker paste so it doesn’t slide off your skin. Apply it to the mosquito bite and let it sit for 10 minutes before rinsing. If this paste irritates your skin, stop this treatment. 

Apple Cider Vinegar

Applying a drop or two of apple cider vinegar on your mosquito bite may be very effective at relieving itchiness or burning. It helps to disinfect the bite, which is especially important if you’ve been scratching it nonstop. Should you require more relief, try to soak a washcloth in a solution of cold water and apple cider vinegar for a few minutes. Wring out the cloth and then apply it to the bite. If you have a lot of mosquito bites, dilute two cups of apple cider vinegar in a tepid bath and soak in it for 20 minutes. A hot bath can make itching worse, so don’t soak in hot water.

Thyme

When a mosquito bites you, it’s time for thyme! Fresh thyme leaves exhibit antibacterial properties, which may help reduce the risk of infection and itchiness around a mosquito bite. Pluck fresh thyme leaves and mince them, or smash them into a paste with a mortar and pestle. Apply the minced or crushed leaves to the bite and let sit for 10 minutes. Alternatively, boil a cup or two of water and pour it over a bundle of fresh thyme. Remove the thyme from the water once it cools. Dip a washcloth into the thyme-infused water and apply it to the bites for a couple minutes. 

Lemon Balm

Closely related to the mint plant, lemon balm is a centuries-old herb that you can use to remedy numerous symptoms. It works to soothe an upset stomach, but it may also relieve itching for people with mosquito bites or cold sores. Apply finely chopped lemon balm leaves directly to the mosquito bite, or you can purchase lemon balm cream and apply that to the bite. The tannins, in addition to it being a natural astringent, and polyphenols help to ease inflammation and accelerate the healing process. 

Peppermint Oil

A 2016 study found that peppermint oil may relieve itching from long-term causes, including liver conditions and diabetes. In theory, health experts believe that it may alleviate temporary itching, for example, from a mosquito bite. It should also be noted that peppermint oil is an age-old remedy that people used to relieve itching. Mix a few drops of peppermint oil in one ounce of carrier oil. Coconut oil, jojoba oil, almond oil, or olive oil are excellent carrier oils to use. Do not apply undiluted peppermint oil directly on the skin! Apply the oil solution to the bites and reapply as needed.

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Fall is upon us, which means that the beautiful autumn foliage is about to happen. For many people, the changing of leaves triggers violent allergy attacks, causing major sneezing, coughing, or general congestion. Allergies can affect everyone differently, especially with each passing season, but they don’t have to dictate your ability to breathe. You can use essential oils to help decongest the sinuses. 

Popularly used in aromatherapy, essential oils exhibit an array of health benefits. The powerful aromas of certain essential oils help to unblock a stuffed nose. In doing so, essential oils promote sinus drainage and may even reduce inflammation and fight bacteria in the process. The goal is to open the airways and rid the nasal passages of built-up mucus. 

One of the best ways to do this is to use steam in combination with essential oils. Now, it’s not as though everyone has a steam room in their home or even at a gym near their home. Use the power of hot water in your shower and some DIY aromatherapy shower steamers. Think of these like little bath bombs that you drop in your shower. As they melt, they release the aromas from the essential oils. Combined with the steam of the hot water, the aromas promote decongestion and easy breathing. See which essential oils help out below. 

Eucalyptus Essential Oil

If there is one essential oil associated with decongestion, it’s eucalyptus essential oil. Many over-the-counter products that promote decongestion contain eucalyptus essential oil for that reason. A 2009 study monitored two groups, one of which took a placebo and the other took cineole, which is a compound in eucalyptus. The group that took cineole in pill form proved to relieve congestion. It’s better to inhale eucalyptus’ aroma, though, as it may relieve headaches, runny nose, and nasal obstruction.

Thyme Essential Oil

Thyme is a traditional herb belonging to the mint family. Not only is it a culinary staple in many cuisines, but it also exhibits numerous healing properties. The essential oil of thyme offers many antibacterial and expectorant properties, which promote decongestion. Studies have shown that it works to clean mucus deposits from nasal passages and the chest. Many people who use thyme essential oil also experience relief from sinus headaches, bronchitis, and asthma symptoms. 

Peppermint Essential Oil

Similar to eucalyptus essential oil, peppermint essential oil provides a cooling effect after inhalation. Not only does this feel great, but it also helps to unblock sinuses. Peppermint essential oil contains menthol, which is a compound that fights bacteria and helps to open the airways. Menthol may even affect mucus receptors in the nose, promoting decongestion for better breathing. Combine peppermint essential oil with steam to enhance the benefits. 

Pine Essential Oil

The enchanting smell of pine can make your house smell like a forest, and it also helps to improve air quality by battling microorganisms. Pine essential oil contains monoterpenes and antiseptic properties, which work to promote decongestion and fight bacteria in the respiratory system. Many people also find that pine essential oil has a warming effect on the chest, providing much needed relief. 

DIY Aromatherapy Shower Steamers

Ingredients:

• 1 cup baking soda
• 1/2 cup citric acid
• 1/3 cup arrowroot powder
• 1/8 cup kaolin clay
• 1 spray bottled filled with water
• 1 tablespoon 100% pure menthol crystals
• 100 drops eucalyptus essential oil
• 50 drops peppermint essential oil
• 30 drops pine essential oil
• 15 drops thyme essential oil

Instructions:

• Combine the baking soda, citric acid, arrowroot powder, and kaolin clay in a non-metallic mixing bowl and whisk until combined. 
• Drop in the essential oils and give everything a quick mix. 
• Spray the mixture with a little water and immediately whisk the mixture. It’s best to wear disposable gloves to protect your hands, especially since citric acid can be harsh on sensitive skin.
• Get a silicone mold (like an ice cube tray) and pack the mixture into each mold. Allow the shower steamers about 24-48 hours to harden completely. They should feel hard to the touch when ready. 
• Carefully peel back the silicone and gently push each steamer out of the mold. 
• When ready to use, drop one in the shower once the water is hot. Allow the aromas of the essential oils to promote decongestion. The steamer will naturally dissolve and simultaneously release the aromas. 

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There’s a secret that everyone deserves to know if they want to cut down on on toxins that exist in the home. It’s not the average answer that involves throwing out processed foods (we stand by that statement!); rather, it’s to get rid of store bought shampoos. Too often do commercial hair care products contain harmful toxins that prevent your hair from being as healthy as possible. That’s not good news if you’re already losing your hair. 

What Causes Hair Loss? 

Hair loss is an uncomfortable topic of conversation for a lot of people. It raises insecurity levels because it can be quite embarrassing. Hair loss with age is typically hereditary, especially when it comes to baldness. It can also be attributed to hormonal changes, medications or supplements, hairstyles and treatments, or high stress levels. There are ways to help combat hair loss, though.

Some people prefer to ignore hair loss, while others want to get ahead of it and do what they can to prevent it. We understand that you may want to avoid treatments and surgeries, and that’s the wise thing to do. There are natural ingredients that nourish the scalp and help encourage healthier hair growth. Consider the following ingredients as examples. 

Rosemary Essential Oil

The rosemary herb is good for more than enhancing the flavor of roasted potatoes. One of the primary benefits of rosemary essential oil is that it helps to stimulate hair growth. It contains beneficial antioxidants that help to encourage cellular regeneration on the scalp. Researchers believe that this helps improve thickness and overall growth. Additionally, rosemary essential oil contains carnosic acid, which has exhibited the ability to restore nerve & tissue damage on the scalp. It also helps to increase circulation to the scalp, which can help follicles thrive. 

Castile Soap

Castile soap may not have the ability to generate impressive hair growth, but it doesn’t cause the damage that commercial shampoos do. It’s a safe, non-toxic soap that gently cleanses the scalp. Many people with eczema, psoriasis, or other scalp issues use it for that reason. Another benefit is that it doesn’t irritate the scalp or hair. In fact, it helps preserve the scalps natural oils for optimal scalp health. This helps to keep hair follicles healthy and ultimately promotes a steady hair growth rate. 

Thyme Essential Oil

According to anecdotal reports, thyme essential oil is beneficial for the hair and scalp. Experts believe that the antimicrobial and antibacterial properties help eliminate bacterial build-up on the scalp. In doing so, thyme essential oil helps to unclog hair follicles to allow for optimal hair growth. Similar to tea tree oil, thyme essential oil is very potent, so you must dilute it. If you have sensitive skin, it may be beneficial to do a small patch test to determine sensitivity levels. 

DIY Shampoo To Fight Hair Loss

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup filtered water
• 1/4 cup liquid Castile soap
• 1/2 teaspoon jojoba oil
• 6 drops rosemary essential oil
• 5 drops lavender essential oil
• 4 drops thyme essential oil
• 2 drops peppermint essential oil

Instructions:

• Add the water, Castile soap, and jojoba oil to a glass container. This could be a foaming soap dispenser or any glass bottle with a pump.
• Mix well and then pour in the essential oils. 
• Mix the oils and then screw on the top. Your shampoo is ready.
• Although it is much thinner than regular shampoo, it does get soapy!

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A lot of people take supplements to meet their recommended daily intake (RDI) of vitamin C, but fresh fruits and vegetables are the best sources. Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, plays numerous roles that are integral to overall bodily functions. It assists with cell protection, maintaining healthy skin & blood vessels, and it encourages wound healing. The most notable benefit is that it helps to encourage a healthier immune system. 

In general, foods that are naturally rich in vitamin C are fruits and vegetables. Since the body doesn’t store vitamin C, people need to regularly consume it. Any leftover vitamin C that the body cannot use leaves via urine. According to the FDA, the RDI of vitamin C is 90 milligrams (mg) for adult males, and 75 mg for adult females. Pregnant women should consume 85 mg per day, and breastfeeding women should consume 120 mg per day. Take a look at the following 10 foods to make sure you always have enough vitamin C in the body.

Kiwi

One cup of this tart fruit satisfies about 185% of the RDI of vitamin C. Most people don’t typically eat a cup of kiwi, though; rather, they eat a single kiwi fruit, which has about 79% of the RDI of vitamin C. There was a study that monitored 30 people (ages 20-51), who ate 2-3 kiwis every day for one month. The results indicated that kiwis lowered triglyceride levels by 15% and blood platelet stickiness by 18%. That’s great news for people who have higher risk of stroke or blood clots. 

Strawberries

You can’t have a list of vitamin C-rich foods and exclude strawberries. One cup of this classic summer berry delivers 108% of the RDI of vitamin C. In addition to the high vitamin C content, strawberries also contain folate, manganese, flavonoids, and other antioxidants. Studies have shown that the antioxidants in strawberries may reduce the risk of cancer, dementia, and diabetes.

Guava

Surprisingly, one cup of guava fruit offers 419% of the RDI of vitamin C. Guavas are tropical fruits that have yellow or green skin with bright pink or white flesh. They help to promote hydration and may even assist with blood pressure and cholesterol reduction.

Papaya

Papayas are beneficial for both assisting with optimal digestion and boosting immune function. Papaya offers 97% of the RDI of vitamin C per cup, and several studies revealed that they may also assist with brain function. One study even found that people who consumed papaya extract for six months experienced a 40% decrease in oxidative stress. That’s one of the main contributing factors to cognitive decline.

Red Bell Peppers

Boasting an incredible 211% of the RDI of vitamin C per cup, red bell peppers are some of the best vitamin C foods. All bell peppers contain vitamin C, but the red ones contain the most. They are also rich in beta-carotene, which encourages healthier eyes, skin, and immune function.

Kale

Kale is a superstar among produce items. There’s nothing it can’t do! Kale is a cruciferous vegetable that packs about 89% of the RDI of vitamin C per cup. If you eat a cup of cooked kale, it offers 59% because heat lessens the nutritional content. Kale is also rich in vitamin K and antioxidants like zeaxanthin, lutein, and carotenoids.

Thyme

This aromatic herb offers wonderful depth of flavor to your meals. According to research, thyme has more vitamin C than oranges, comparing it gram for gram. One ounce of fresh thyme offers 50% of the RDI of vitamin C. Even if you only sprinkle a little on your meals at a time, you add some vitamin C to your day. Thyme is also beneficial for the respiratory system. 

Brussels Sprouts

When it comes to Brussels sprouts, people either love or hate them. They are like durian fruit in that way. They do, however, offer a diverse mix of nutrients, including vitamin C. One cup of cooked Brussels sprouts contains 107% of the RDI of vitamin C. Brussels sprouts also offer, fiber, protein, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, and vitamin B6. 

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A garden is a tranquil sanctuary that provides endless opportunities. You can use it to grow food or you can harness the power of herbs to benefit your health. You don’t even need a garden! Purchase pots, soil, and small herbs, give them love, sunshine, and water, and then prepare them in various ways. From tinctures and syrups to teas and seasonings, herbs have myriad uses and can help improve memory, reduce arthritis symptoms, and even fight the common cold.

Some herbs thrive outdoors, while others grow better indoors. At the end of the day, you can easily grow them in pots without the need for a plot of land. Even if you live in an apartment and only have a five-foot by seven-foot balcony, you can grow the herbs in this article. Reap the health benefits of herbs year round when you grow them at home. Continue reading to learn more about starting your medicinal, herbal garden. 

Aloe Vera

Every person can benefit from inviting aloe vera into their life. The gel has soothing, cooling, antibacterial, emollient, and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s possible to use it to reduce the pain and itchiness of sunburns, or even add to smoothies to encourage healthier digestion. Apply it to the skin to help reduce acne or the symptoms of eczema and rosacea. It’s a hardy plant that grows indoors and outdoors. Bring it inside during colder months and leave it outside in the warmer months. Just make sure it doesn’t have full sun exposure, because it will wilt. 

Rosemary

Rosemary is a shrub that has woody stems and aromatic needles. The rosemarinic acid in the needles have powerful antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fungal properties. Several studies found that the antioxidants in rosemary exhibit anti-cancer effects, while the anti-fungal properties proved effective against listeria and H. pylori. For a healthy rosemary plant, make sure the soil is properly aerated. Water only when the soil is dry. It can take a while to grow, but don’t be afraid to trim the leaves if you want to cook with them. 

Tulsi

Known for its antioxidant, adaptogenic, immune-boosting, antidepressant, and mucus expelling properties, tulsi is a wonderful herb to grow at home. You may be more familiar with tulsi’s other name, holy basil. It’s a traditional folk herb that is beneficial for improving cognitive abilities, making it great for the elderly. Tulsi enjoys full sun in temperate areas, but it also likes shade in warmer climates. Make sure to trim the shoots and early flowers, just like regular basil, if you want a health plant. 

Oregano

Oregano is a classic culinary spice, but it boasts some powerful health benefits. Several studies examined carvacrol, the compound in oregano that may help protect against arthritis. Other studies found beneficial antioxidants in oregano that exhibited abilities to slow the growth of certain cancers. The polyphenols may even help reduce a person’s risk of other chronic diseases. It’s a perennial plant that requires natural light. It’s the perfect windowsill plant! Just leave it in the window for six hours a day and make sure the soil is completely dry before you water it. 

Lemongrass

Lemongrass has a beautiful, refreshing aroma that is a staple herb in Indian, Caribbean, Chinese, and Brazilian folk medicine. Most modern research focuses on the benefits of lemongrass essential oil, but actual lemongrass helps reduce anxiety, stress, insomnia symptoms, and the duration of colds and flus. You can use it in stocks, soups, or you can brew it into an aromatic tea. Lemongrass thrives in pots, and should be taken indoors during the winter. It has a tendency to take over a garden, so growing it in a pot prevents this. Lemongrass prefers full sun and quick-drying soil. 

Thyme

It’s common for health care workers in Europe to use thyme in many of their cold & flu products. Studies have shown that thyme has the ability to reduce symptoms of bronchitis, asthma, and even emphysema. Other studies found that thyme exhibited expectorant and antibacterial properties, making it great if you need to rid excess mucus from the body. It’s possible to propagate thyme from cuttings, but it’s easy to purchase a small new plant. Keep it in a small pot in the windowsill so that it gets ample light. You don’t even have to water it a lot because it is drought-resistant. 

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The lungs never stop working, keeping oxygen flowing in and expelling carbon dioxide. Breathing is the magical rhythm that keeps us alive and if the lungs aren’t functioning properly, your breathing suffers. It’s very easy to for the respiratory system to weaken, with air pollution, airborne toxins, and viruses threatening you all the time. In fact, about 91% of people worldwide live in places where air pollution exceeds healthy limits. 

From breathing exercises to holistic medicinal approaches, there are many ways to nourish the lungs and respiratory system. To keep them safe from pollutants and other threats, including wildfire smoke, smog, excess ozone, and viruses, experts recommend keeping the air around you as clean as possible. Consider investing in HEPA-certified filters in your home, portable air purifiers, or indoor plants that benefit lung function. If you don’t have the funds or desire to purchase those recommended items, consider supplementing with herbs for optimal lung health. Continue reading to discover five excellent herbs for your lungs. 

5 Herbs For Your Lungs

Licorice Root

No, this is not black licorice candy, but it does have that signature anise flavor. Have you had a cup of Throat Coat tea when you had a sore throat? Well, one of the featured ingredients in that tea blend is licorice root. Traditionally, people used it to help remedy coughs, colds, or other respiratory issues, and modern day studies found out how it’s able to do this. The antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties of licorice root help protect sensitive tissues in the respiratory system from irritation or infection. A 2011 study found that glycyrrhizin, the active component in licorice root, helps sooth asthma symptoms. It also helps to strengthen the lungs by thickening membranes. 

Plantain Leaf

Originating in Europe and Northern and Central Asia, the plantain plant is an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and flavonoids. A quick clarification: this herb has no relation to the plantain fruit. The two primary flavonoids, luteolin and apigenin, have been known to boost respiratory health and ward off seasonal allergies. The combination of vitamins A & C, zinc, and iron also aid immune function. Some health experts attribute the lung benefits to the high vitamin C content, which historically helps overall lung function.

Thyme

This fragrant herb is more than a mere spice for culinary applications. There is historical evidence that documents thyme as a “notable strengthener of the lungs,” in addition to it being a remedy for shortness of breath. Scientific research deemed thyme one of the most potent lung-cleansing herbs, and herbal medicine practitioners use thyme to help rid the respiratory system of excess phlegm. According to a 2016 study, thyme demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity on human lung cells. The results of the study found that reducing inflammation in the lungs led to better breathing and a reduced risk of shortness of breath. 

Mullein

In traditional medicine, mullein has a reputation of being a lung-boosting herb. It’s a weedy herb that commonly grows in Asia, Europe, and Northern Africa. It has a rich history of use, from the days of Ancient Greece to modern herbal concoctions. When you ingest mullein, it helps to reduce sore throat symptoms, including dry or scratchy throat. It also helps to soothe the respiratory tract, which researchers attribute to the anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Finally, folk remedies used mullein as a remedy for tuberculosis (TB). Scientists believe that the antibacterial and antiviral properties were responsible for helping people overcome TB.

Astragalus

This is an excellent herb that has a similar long history of use to mullein. It is a popular herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and it contains over 100 active compounds, including flavonoids, polysaccharides, amino acids, and saponins. It has been known to boost immune function, reduce stress, improve digestion, and enhance respiratory function. Several studies found that supplementing with astragalus soothed the airways and boosted overall respiratory function. It’s also incredible for immune function, which reduces the risk of respiratory infection. 

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Frosty mornings and less daylight doesn’t mean that you sink into a pit of depression or throw all health practices out the window. Unfortunately, the holiday season leads to a series of unhealthy habits, including excessive screen time and the consumption of more junk food. This is especially dangerous for the upcoming holidays because most people have been doing exactly that since the coronavirus pandemic started in March 2020. 

What are your normal winter habits? We’re going to make a safe bet and say that one of your habits is curling up under a fuzzy blanket on the couch to watch TV for hours on end. Who knows, maybe you don’t shower for a couple days since you’re in the house. The lack of daylight is a common cause for the lethargy during winter. When it’s dark at 5 p.m., you don’t feel as inspired to go for a neighborhood run or work on a project. On top of all this laziness and lack of self-care, winter marks cold and flu season. Neglecting your physical and mental health can increase your risk of getting sick, so use the following winter wellness tips to stay as healthy as possible.

Soak Up Some Natural Vitamin D

Around one billion people worldwide experience vitamin D deficiency, while 50% of the global population experiences vitamin D insufficiency. In the United States, about 35% of the adult population is deficient in vitamin D. Given that vitamin D helps with calcium absorption, immune function, and bone health, it’s a good idea to stand in the sun during winter. The unfortunate reality is that it’s hard for people in certain states to get a lot of sun, and many people stay inside because of the colder temperatures. If you are not able to get at least 15-30 minutes of sunlight daily, consider supplementing with vitamin D. 

Don’t Stop Moving

It’s so easy to avoid exercise during the winter because the sun begins to set at 4 p.m. It’s easy to say, “I’ll just exercise at home later,” but how many people actually follow through with that statement? More often than not, people wind up sipping hot cocoa and eating popcorn while watching movies. Exercising releases endorphins, which are feel good hormones that can help combat seasonal affective disorder or depression. Additionally, exercising benefits the immune system, making you less prone to contracting winter colds. Go on a hike on the weekend or try to hit the slopes if you ski or snowboard. Get the blood pumping and you’ll feel healthier. 

Don’t Neglect Your Sleep

We know we just told you to stay active, but it’s equally important to make time for sleep during the holidays. Sleep is the body’s way of recovering, but it also contributes to better mental health. Several sleep studies found that sleep-deprived people are more prone to chronic inflammation and reduced immune function as a result. It’s easy to stay up late binge-watching your new favorite show, but sleep is more important than Netflix or Hulu. One hour before you go to sleep, turn off the TV and put away your phone. Try to read a book, meditate, or engage in some restorative yoga poses to contribute to healthier sleep. 

Load Up On Vitamin C

As we’ve mentioned in this article, winter is notorious for colds and flus. On top of those viruses, you have to worry about COVID-19. There has never been a better time to load up on vitamin C, which plays a big role in immune function. According to several studies, vitamin C helps to shorten the duration of colds and works to decrease the severity of symptoms. If you need to increase your vitamin C intake, start eating bell peppers, kiwis, kale, tomatoes, broccoli, citrus fruits, guavas, berries, parsley, thyme, and Brussels sprouts.

Keep Washing Those Hands

Both the CDC and the WHO advise that people be diligent about hand washing during the holidays. Proper hand washing with soap and water helps you limit the presence of bacteria and germs on your hands. When your hands are clean, your risk of transmitting germs from your hands to your eyes, nose, mouth, and ears decreases. You should wash your hands before eating or preparing food, after using the restroom, and after being out in public. A pro tip for keeping hands from drying out after incessant hand washing: wash with lukewarm to cold water instead of scalding hot water. The hot water feels nice, but it dries out your skin. And don’t forget to moisturize after washing.

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