Herbs and their essential oils have supplemented human health and beauty regimens for centuries. Ancient Roman, Egyptian and Hebrew societies utilized herbs in the treatment of illness and the origins of the pharmaceutical industry relied heavily on the isolation of elements found in herbs. Essential oils are created from herbal derivatives combined with carrier oils. Carrier oils, made from vegetable fats, dilute potently concentrated herbal extracts so that they may be safely be used in topical applications.
Herbal Teas
Herbs are commonly used to brew teas. Depending on the herb, these aromatic teas may provide health benefits. Chamomile has been consumed as a relaxing beverage to ease frazzled nerves, while dandelion tea is a popular diuretic.
Aromatherapy
Essential oils play a key role in aromatherapy, a practice which purports to contribute to physical and emotional well-being through the use of aromatic plant oils. Oils can be inhaled using a diffuser or applied to the skin in a diluted form. Eucalyptus oil, for example, is diffused to help relieve congestion.
Salves and Lotions
Both dried herbs and essential oils are used in healing salves intended for topical application. Calendula is useful in soothing dry, cracked skin. Tea tree oil has antibacterial properties and is used in many health and beauty applications.
Nutritious Flavor Enhancement
Herbs increase our dining enjoyment by adding a myriad of fresh flavors to foods, while boosting their nutritive value as well. Fennel, for example, contains calcium as well as vitamins A and C. Thyme boasts of B complex, C and D. Almost every culinary herb contains helpful vitamins.
Sachets and Potpourri
Dried aromatic herbs gathered and sewn inside small cloth pillows have long been used as a pleasant way to scent clothing and keep away insects. Sachets of cedar wood, pennyroyal and rosemary are used to keep moths out of closets and drawers and lavender sachets have been used for their soothing effect, tucked into pillows as a sleep aid.
Herbal Poultices
The old time practice of using herbal poultices involves wrapping a warm wet mass of herbs in muslin and then placing it on the affected area. Poultices have been used to soothe sore muscles and inflammation. Slippery elm, comfrey and goldenseal are some of the herbs used to make poultices.
About this Author
For 15 years, Christina Ray’s award-winning work has appeared in film, television, newspapers, magazines and the Internet. She has worked as a story editor on the CBS drama Flashpoint, and her column, “Road Stories,” appears bimonthly in The Driver Magazine. She has a B.S. in biology, and a Doctorate in Chiropractic from Palmer College.
