Holy basil, or Tulsi, is one of the most revered herbs in Indian medicine. It has been used medicinally in India for many thousands of years. Nowadays, Western scientists are beginning to uncover the brilliance of this powerful herb. Holy basil can effectively aid in a wide range of illnesses and discomforts. A member of…
Herbal Aphrodisiacs Herbal aphrodisiacs are as varied and numerous as the plants themselves. Some herbs give the body an immediate “boost” of libido and work directly on the reproductive system. Other herbs are more nutritive; they work on a long-term basis to rejuvenate the reproductive system and the adrenals to build lasting energy and stamina.…
Fall is here! Each season has its own unique energetic signature that influences our bodies, minds, and spirits. Fall is a significant transitional period for both our inner and outer worlds; we transition from the warm, social, vibrant energy of the summertime and into the introspective, and nostalgic energy of the colder months ahead. In…
Gymnema is an Ayurvedic herb with a truly extraordinary effect on blood sugar disorders. Its Sanskrit name is Gurmar, which means “Sugar Destroyer”, or “Destroyer of the Sweet Taste”. Gymnema has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for blood sugar for thousands of years. Its effects on the insulin cycle, pancreas, and liver make it a…
Whether you’ve got some leftover pumpkin seeds from this year’s Jack-o-lantern or are getting your seeds from the grocery store, you can feel great about the health benefits of a tasty pumpkin seed snack all year round. In the herbal world, pumpkin seeds are perhaps best known for their ability to protect and nourish the…
Digestive distress is all too common among Americans. There are probably plenty of reasons for it: stress, eating on the run, eating over-processed food, eating too much or too little or the wrong foods for our body type. There are some digestive issues that are more serious, but for most of us it’s the everyday…
Gotu Kola, Centella asiatica, is a delicate, mildly flavored plant that is commonly found growing in damp marshy areas and next to gently moving streams and creeks around the world. It is used in the traditional medical systems of India, Africa, Europe, and Asia. In India, this plant is sometimes called Brahmi, and can be…
Zinc is an essential nutrient involved in proper immune function and healing. It is a highly recommended supplement as many are deficient in this mineral. The well-known zinc lozenge is helpful, especially when fighting off a cold or sore throat, but a food-based zinc supplement is a good choice for everyday, or during periods of…
Lemon Balm, Melissa officinalis, is a fragrant perennial plant that is a member of the mint family, and it is cultivated in the United States, Europe and Canada. With an aromatic and fresh scent that combines the odors of mint and lemon, Lemon Balm is a favorite addition to culinary dishes, tea, and body care…
Chronic inflammation is associated with many health conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis as well as heart disease, diabetes, cancer and many pain disorders. Research suggests that chronic inflammation can lead to the above health problems, as well as Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia. Inflammation is an important part of the healing process.…
When you’re cooking with herbs, you might not realize the powerful medicinal effects these herbs have on the body. Some of them help boost the immune system while others relieve gas and alleviate stomach aches. All of them are tasty! BasilThis is an herb that you have probably used in soups or with various meats,…
St. John’s Wort has been recognized for its beneficial properties for centuries, dating back long before medieval times. It is a plant steeped in legend. Nevertheless, St. John’s Wort has treated the ailments of many grateful people over time, and has been studied a great deal in modern times. St. John’s Wort gets its name…
Ginger, Zingiber officinale, is a root with a characteristically spicy flavor used in cooking all over the world. Gingerol, one of the identified essential oils in the fresh root has many soothing and anti-inflammatory properties that make it a very useful substance. According to Ayurvedic medicine, which has used ginger root for centuries, the fresh…
The Importance for Calcium and Magnesium for Bone Strength Bone strength is something to protect and nourish, especially as we age. Osteoporosis, a disease defined as the loss of bone strength, can lead to bone fractures. Older folks are particularly vulnerable because they are more likely to suffer from falls. And if a fall results…
Baraka Neti Pots – Dr. OZ and Oprah Approved You may have heard about Neti Pots on TV. They’ve become more and more popular in recent years as more people realize how easy it can be to feel better and Breathe deeper! Rinsing with a neti pot is an ancient Ayurvedic remedy recommended by many…
The Amazing Benefits of Nettle Leaf Just Don’t Quit Here at Smile Herb Shop we’re big fans of Nettles. Ask any of our herbalists what their favorite thing is about this herb and you’re likely to get lots and lots of answers! Best known these days for dealing with seasonal allergies, Nettles can do so…
Herbal Tea Blend for Focused Attention and Relaxation Whether you are a busy parent or swamped at work, we all have stress. Luckily, you can decrease your stress levels and increase your focus and energy without chemicals. Try making a tea blend with the herbs below to boost your mental functions the natural way! Spearmint’s…
What is Nasya Oil and Why Should I Put It Up My Nose? Nasya oil is an invigorating Ayurvedic therapy used for more than 5,000 years to treat ailments occurring above the collar bone. This balancing herbal oil improves a number of discomforts including but not limited to clogged nasal passages, hoarse voice, stiff neck,…
by Claudia Joy Wingo, MPH, BApSc, RN, DMH, Clinical Herbalist As a Washington DC native recently returned from 4 ½ years in Australia, I had forgotten the abundance of both plant and animal species on display in the Washington area. My delight at sighting a number of rabbits, a handsome red fox and a small…
5 Herbs to Manage Stress Stress is often seen as unpleasant and annoying, but it can also cause real health problems by raising your blood pressure, upsetting the digestive system, and increasing muscle pain and inflammation. Fortunately, stress can be managed well. Lifestyle changes and taking these soothing herbs is a great way to reduce…
