Nature’s Medicine Cabinet: Everyday Plants & Herbs for Vitality, Immunity & Energy
February 11, 2025
So many people are looking for a natural, everyday approach to wellness. What herbs should I try? What adaptogens are right for me?
The beauty of this predicament, is that Mother Earth is our medicine cabinet! There are so many options to help us feel our best that are natural, herbal based, and GOOD for the soul!
In a world filled with quick-fix medications and synthetic remedies, more and more people are turning to nature for everyday wellness. Whether you’re looking to boost immunity, support a healthy pregnancy, or simply feel more balanced, the right herbs and adaptogens can offer powerful support. But with so many options available, where do you start? What herbs are best for stress relief, digestion, or hormonal balance?
From ancient healing traditions to modern herbalism, plants have long been trusted allies in promoting health and vitality. In this blog, I highlighted some of the most effective herbs for common concerns—whether you’re fighting off a cold, soothing morning sickness, or seeking natural energy support. Let’s dive into the world of plant-based wellness and discover how nature’s pharmacy can become part of your daily routine.
Reminder! Bookmark this to refer back when you need to 🙂
Herbs for Everyday Vitality
For overall well-being, these herbs, plants, and adaptogens help nourish the body, boost digestion, and maintain balanced energy levels.
Ginger
Ginger aids digestion, reduces inflammation, and supports circulation. Ginger is also known to help with nausea, improve gut health, and stimulate blood flow, making it an excellent choice for overall wellness.
How to Use:
Tea: Slice fresh ginger and steep in hot water for 10 minutes. Add lemon and honey for extra benefits.
Cooking: Add to soups, stir-fries, or smoothies for a warming kick.
Juice: Blend with other fruits for an anti-inflammatory boost.
Turmeric
Turmeric supports joint health, reduces inflammation, and promotes brain function. Turmeric is rich in antioxidants and curcumin, which may also help reduce symptoms of arthritis and support liver function.
How to Use:
Golden Milk: Mix ½ tsp of turmeric with warm milk, black pepper, and honey.
Cooking: Add to curries, rice & veggie dishes, or grounding soups.
Capsules: Take as a supplement for a concentrated dose.
Peppermint
Peppermint helps digestion, relieves headaches, and its fresh nature promotes mental clarity. Peppermint is also known to alleviate bloating, soothe an upset stomach, and provide cooling relief for tension headaches.
How to Use:
Tea: Steep fresh or dried peppermint leaves in hot water for 5–7 minutes.
Aromatherapy: Inhale peppermint essential oil for an instant pick-me-up.
Salad: Chop fresh leaves into fruit salads or herbal dressings.
Herbs for When You’re Sick
Whether it’s a sinus infection, cold, or general fatigue, these herbs provide relief.
For Sinus Congestion
Eucalyptus: clears sinuses and opens airways. Eucalyptus is also a natural decongestant, helping to break up mucus and support respiratory health.
How to Use:
Steam Inhalation: Add a few eucalyptus leaves or essential oil drops to a bowl of hot water, cover your head with a towel, and inhale deeply. Plus if you have some rose to add to this!
Aromatherapy: Use eucalyptus oil in a diffuser to help breathe easier.
For Colds & Flu
Elderberry: Boosts immunity and shortens cold duration. Elderberry is packed with antioxidants and vitamins that help the body fight off infections and reduce inflammation.
How to Use:
Syrup: Simmer 1 cup of dried elderberries with 3 cups of water and ½ cup honey. Take 1 tbsp daily.
Tea: Steep dried elderberries with ginger and cinnamon for a warming drink.
Garlic: Natural antibiotic that fights colds and infections. Garlic also has antibacterial and antiviral properties, supporting cardiovascular health and lowering blood pressure.
How to Use:
Raw: Crush and eat 1 clove daily (best with honey or mixed into food).
Tea: Simmer crushed garlic in hot water, then add lemon and honey.
Cooking: Incorporate into soups, stews, and marinades.
For Sore Throat
Marshmallow root: soothes sore throats and reduces inflammation. Marshmallow root contains mucilage, which coats the throat and provides lasting relief from irritation.
How to Use:
Tea: Steep marshmallow root in cold water for 4+ hours for a mucilage-rich drink.
Lozenges: Find natural marshmallow lozenges to coat the throat.
Safe Herbs for Pregnant Mamas
Pregnancy of course requires extra caution, but these gentle herbs provide relief. Always check with your doctor first!
Raspberry Leaf
Raspberry Leaf tea can help strengthen the uterus and may ease labor. It’s also rich in vitamins and minerals, which supports overall reproductive health. Mamas often use this in the third trimester for preparing for labor, and helping to ease childbirth by toning the uterine muscles. It’s also a delicious herbal drink over ice!
How to Use:
Tea is the best way to do this! Steep 1 tsp dried raspberry leaf per 1 cup of hot water for 10 minutes. Make in batches and store in the fridge!
Chamomile
Chamomile relieves stress, improves sleep, and soothes digestion. Chamomile also has anti-inflammatory properties and can help with anxiety and skin health.
How to Use:
Brew fresh or dried chamomile flowers in hot water for 5 minutes.
Ginger
Ginger is great for pregnancy to help alleviate nausea and morning sickness. Ginger also helps with motion sickness, reduces muscle pain, and supports the overall immune system.
How to Use:
Ginger Tea: Slice fresh ginger and steep in hot water.
Chewable: Try ginger chews or natural ginger candies.
Herbs for When You’re Drained & Need an Energy Boost
Instead of reaching for caffeine, these herbs provide sustained, natural energy.
Ginseng
Boost stamina, mental clarity, and energy levels naturally with ginseng. Ginseng is also known to reduce stress, enhance physical performance, and support immune function.
How to Use:
Tea: Steep ginseng root in hot water for 10 minutes.
Powder: Add to smoothies or herbal lattes.
Capsules: Take as a supplement for a daily energy boost.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha reduces stress, enhances endurance, and supports adrenal health. It’s also an adaptogen, helping the body manage cortisol levels and improve sleep quality.
How to Use:
Tea: Steep Ashwagandha root in warm milk with honey.
Powder: Blend into smoothies or take in capsule form. Try the aswhagandha powder from Anima Mundi Herbals! Highly recommend.
Nettle/Nettle Leaf
Nettle is rich in iron, supports energy levels, and reduces fatigue. It’s also packed with essential vitamins and minerals, aiding in detoxification and reducing inflammation.
How to Use:
Tea: Brew a teaspoon of dried nettle leaves in a cup of hot water for 10 minutes. Consider adding honey or other additions for flavor!
Soup: Add fresh nettles to soups or stews (cooked to neutralize).
