Ten Herbs You Can Use as Medicine

Most Americans are more familiar with herbs within a culinary context. However, herbs have been recognized as health aids and solutions for thousands of years. You may be familiar with a few—specific types of tea have been making their way into commercial supermarkets, and the juicing trend has brought several important herbs into the spotlight. Herbs are incredibly accessible, fun to use, and a great way to experiment with homeopathy. Here are ten herbs you can use as medicine.


Thyme: Type is excellent for respiratory issues. Thymol, its most notable chemical compound, is recognized for its antiseptic abilities. Plus, it tastes pretty great when baked into bread.

Echinacea: Yes, this is actually an herb! You may have taken Echinacea supplements as a kid (raise your hand if your mom shopped at Whole Foods before it was cool), but the benefits of this power plant go beyond tasty gummies. This herb can alleviate joint pain and improve the immune system.

Chamomile: Popular in tea, chamomile is a popular remedy for curing upset stomachs. It can also be used to solve problems related to sleep, morning sickness, bloating, and other skin problems.

Dandelion: This flowering plant is best known for its use as a detoxifying agent for the liver and kidney. Dandelion has also been used to treat infections, minimize swelling, balance blood sugar, and improve pancreas function.

Sage: This herb is excellent for disinfecting sores, healing ulcers, and curing coughs.

Peppermint: One of the tastiest herbs on this lit, peppermint is used to alleviate dyspepsia, gastritis, intestinal colic, and GI tract issues. Essentially, it will sooth your stomach.

Holy basic: This plant has anti-fungal and antibacterial properties. Plus, it tastes excellent with tomatoes.

Lemon balm: This herb is incredibly easy to grow. It is known for its anti-viral and relaxing properties and is often used to treat upset stomachs, bad breath, and sores.

Aloe vera: If you’re using skin treatments without aloe vera, you’re doing something wrong. This herb is used widely to heal wounds and various skin and hair conditions. When taken orally, aloe can act as a laxative.

Bergamot: Essential oils made from Bergamot can help treat high fever and intestinal worms. It can also be used for aromatherapy and act as a tonic for the nervous system, alleviating stress, anxiety, tension, and headache.