Long before individuals went to doctors and pharmacies for the medication needed to keep them feeling well, they turned to healthy herbs. These herbal remedies helped to strengthen the immune system and relieve pain. They were often dried so they could be preserved for use when out of season; however, this does cause some loss of the healthy benefits the plants have to offer.

Even though these remedies have been used for centuries and are natural, they can also cause undesirable side effects. Before combining herbs with any other medication, talk with a pharmacist or your doctor about any possible interactions. Nursing mothers as well as pregnant women should talk with their doctor about any problems the herb could cause for their baby.

Echinacea is an herb used in improving immune system function. Discovered by Native Americans, the plant helps the body to produce lymphocytes to destroy pathogens. However, according to some clinical evidence, individuals with autoimmune diseases should avoid this herb. It can help to reduce the time the body needs to recover from a cold when used as a tea or taken in capsule form.

St. John's Wort is offers help with depression and other mood disorders. It is an herbal alternative to Prozac. It can help to increase serotonin production in the body. The herb does have side effects and should not be combined with other anti-depressants. Other prescription medication is affected by the herb.

Chamomile can help users to relax. It makes a great tasting tea without caffeine. It is helpful with insomnia, mouth ulcers, anxiety, eczema and gum disease. It can help with problems with the nervous and digestive systems. Chamomile is also thought to have antimicrobial properties. Tinctures offer an option other than the tea that some people prefer to use.

Ginseng can help to boost one's energy. This ancient Chinese medicine has been used for thousands of years. It may also help to stimulate intellectual performance. Individuals who suffer chronic fatigue syndrome may find ginseng useful. However it can also cause insomnia and water retention. Individuals suffering from hypertension should not use ginseng. Ginseng is used as a tea, tincture or in the capsule form.

Ginkgo can help to boost one's memory. It is recorded as being used first in China more than 5,000 years ago. The herb offers antioxidant help and improves nerve action as well as circulation. Side effects include mild headaches and upset stomach. The herb does cause thinning of the blood, so it should not be used in conjunction with aspirin or within the weeks before surgery. The root of the plant is brewed into a tea, but extracts are also available for individuals who prefer the ability to simply add the herb to other beverages they enjoy without waiting for it to brew.

Healthy herbs can provide many positive effects for one's body. However, there are certain medical conditions where the effects of these materials are not desirable. With proper use, the health benefits can help you to feel better may help the body to fight disease.