Lavandula

The Lavandula is native to the Mediterranean region; south to tropical Africa; and east to India. Ancient Greeks and Romans used lavender blossoms to scent bath water, a common use that gave the herb its name, derived from the Latin lavare, meaning to wash.

Lavender is an anti-spasmodic, anti-depressant, and hypotensive herb. Its aromatic oil refreshes and tones the skin, and soothes the nerves. Lavender can be quite effective in treating depression, especially when related to stress. Aromatherapy with lavender slows the activity of the nervous system, improves sleep quality, promotes relaxation, and lifts mood in people suffering from sleep disorders.

Topically, the oil from lavender can kill many common bacteria such as typhoid, diphtheria, streptococcus, and pneumococcus. The oil may be used as a stimulating liniment to help ease the aches and pains of rheumatism. Lavender can soothe and protect sunburned skin and possibly prevent infection in blisters that often accompany more severe sunburns. When taken internally, Lavender has been found to stimulate the production and flow of bile. It also has a mildly sedating effect, and gets rid of gas. Lavender has been long utilized as a headache remedy. It can either be rubbed on the temples, or sniffed like smelling salts to provide relief from headaches caused by stress.

When used as aromatherapy, add two to four drops of lavender oil to two to three cups of boiling water, and inhale the steam once per day. When used in a bath, add six drops of lavender oil or 1/4 to 1/2 cup of dried lavender flowers. Lavender is an herb which depresses the central nervous system similar to anti-depressants. One cup of lavender and mint tea can put you to sleep within a matter of minutes.

There are no known side effects associated with lavender tea or oil. Although side effects are rare, some individuals may develop an allergic reaction to lavender. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid using lavender, as it is a uterine stimulant.

Kava Kava

Kava Kava, is native to the South Pacific. It is commonly used to make kava tea to induce relaxation, and improves mental function as well.

Kava acts in the same way as an antidepressant, without the side effects. It is frequently used to treat nervous tension, depression and anxiety disorders, particularly agoraphobia and social phobias. It is also said to be extremely helpful for treating insomnia. The components in this herb are known to relieve muscle spasms as well as for treating Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS).

This herb also provides the body with pain-relief; antiseptic and anti-inflammatory protection, particularly in the urinary tract. Herbalists often recommend this herb to treat urinary tract infection, headaches, and toothaches. As an anti-inflammatory, kava is believed to help relieve arthritis, gout and rheumatism. Used externally, it may also be used to relieve joint pain. Used as a tonic, kava is also said to stimulate the gastrointestinal tract, easing indigestion.

Kava is available in tablet, capsule, and extract form. The recommended dosage is one capsule, one to two times each day with water at mealtimes, particularly in the evening.

Those who suffer with Parkinson's disease should avoid kava, as it may worsen muscular weakness. Pregnant or nursing women should not take this product. Kava should not be taken on a daily basis for longer than three months, as long-term use may cause severe liver damage. Excess use may cause stupor, and it should be used only occasionally to relieve periods of stress or sleeplessness. Kava should never be taken after consuming alcohol. Those who are taking antidepressants or sleeping pills should avoid kava.

Consult a physician before taking kava if you use oral contraceptives, anti-seizure medications, HIV drug prescriptions, anticoagulants or any prescriptions. Kava should be avoided for two weeks prior to any elective surgery. Chronic use may produce dry skin, labored breathing, alteration of red and white blood cell counts. If any of these symptoms appear, discontinue taking it immediately.