If you have wanted to start an in-home apothecary and didn’t know where to start, this is going to be your quick guide to getting started. I want everyone to be able to start their apothecary and have a good understanding of how to work with specific herbs.
Click below to download the guide and be sure to print it out to keep, take notes on, and have as a reference in your studies.
I am very excited to be able to have this publication to help people learn how to help themselves and understand how to make basic remedies for themselves and their family. Now more than ever, taking care of yourself is the most important skill you can ever have!
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If you haven't already read about herbal actions, I would recommend reading up on the topic so that you have a good idea of what that means and how it helps you develop your understanding and practice.
Adaptogens
This article notes “adaptogens can be defined as a pharmacological group of herbal preparations that increase tolerance to mental exhaustion and enhance attention and mental endurance in situations of decreased performance”
Adaptogenic herbs are very common these days and we want you to know what they are about and what they can do for you in your home apothecary.
So what do we take them for?
improving attention
reducing fatigue
support the balance of hormones
manage cortisol levels
supporting cognitive function
boost the immune system
improve body function
What herbs are considered adaptogens?
Astragalus
Ashwagandha
Ginseng
Rhodiola Rosea
Maca Root
Immune Modulating Herbs
These herbs modify the response of the immune system. There are different types of immunomodulators when it comes to herbal medicine. We have immune stimulants, immune modulations, adaptogenics, hormonal modulations, and deep and surface level immune modulations.
These are important to differentiate so you are able to pick the correct herb for your needs. For example, echinacea is an immune stimulant and it is recommended not to use for those who have high cortisol production or are immunocompromised or have autoimmune deficiencies/disorders.
Some deep immune modulators include herbs that are able to help with a root cause, are able to strengthen the immune system, and help us with chronic issues.
Astragalus
Reshi mushrooms
Shitake mushrooms
Surface level immune modulators include antibacterial properties which is why we might run to them first to start attacking a viral infection or a cold.
Garlic
Echinacea
Overall ‘modulators’ include
Mistletoe
Eleuthero
Oat straw
Tulsi (holy basil)
Antimicrobial Herbs
These herbs destroy microbes or prevent them from developing.
According to recent polling, there has been less use of synthetic drugs which makes me believe people want plant/natural products in their homes so they can feel more self-reliant.
This study noted “the use of herbal materials instead of synthetic or chemical drugs is increasing” and I could not be more happy.
What should we have in our apothecary if we want something that is antimicrobial?
Clove
Garlic
Thyme
Black pepper
Coriander
Dill
Eucalyptus
Frankincense
Hibiscus
Horseradish
Parsley
Peppermint
Looks like we might have some of these in our pantry, right? Label these bad boys as antimicrobial and keep them in mind for when you might need to use them!
Anti-inflammatory Herbs
These herbs help reduce or eliminate inflammation and are one of the most important herbs you can have in your apothecary!
Reducing inflammation if you have high cortisol levels can reduce harm to your endocrine system and keep your hormones in check.
Here’s a few you should keep around:
Turmeric - muscle and joint inflammation
Aloe vera - sunburns and skin inflammation
Anise - bruises, pain, discoloration
Arnica - bruising, discomfort, discoloration
Artichoke - GI tract inflammation & discomfort
Chamomile - GI tract inflammation, hormonal imbalance, nerve soothing
Cinnamon - excess period flow/postpartum bleeding, inflammation restricting circulation, muscle soreness
Lemon - GI tract (bitters), fevers, detoxing and reducing inflammation of stomach or heartburn.
Carminative Herbs
These are what we might call bitters as well. These herbs promote the expulsion of gas from the GI tract and are soothing to the stomach lining. These can also ease GI specific inflammation and reduce pain related to GI disorders or discomfort due to something like indigestion.
If you have something like IBS, these herbs may do you some good. Otherwise I recommend keeping them around for upset stomach, indigestion, or other issues you may remember from the Pepto Bismol commercials back in the day.
Let’s see some examples
Peppermint — eases stomach cramping, indigestion, IBS symptoms
Chamomile — soothes the stomach lining and can reduce bloating and gas
Fennel — reduces bloating and gas, helps with cramping and IBS symptoms
Catnip — easing colic, gas, spasms in the stomach. Traditionally used in kids experiencing stomach issues.
Ginger - reduces nausea, motion sickness, morning sickness, improves digestion and bile secretion. Remember being told to drink ginger ale for an upset stomach?
Nutritive Herbs
These provide sources of vitamins and minerals and can help with hormonal balance. Think nutrition when it comes to nutritive herbs.
Alfalfa — draws nutrients from the soil into the plant. Commonly used to feed animals but have rich nutrients that are great for us to consume. Usually considered more of a food than an herb
Cacao — nervous system support, digestive support, kidney support, those with malnutrition support, heart/blood support, high antioxidant count
Maca — fertility support, romantic support, red maca is high in riboflavin and iron, vitality support, hormone support.
Nettle — (my fave!) vitamins A, C, E, and K, riboflavin, thiamine, calcium, magnesium, potassium, histamine among others are contained in this herb. A greatt one for women specifically. Nourishing and supporting the whole body and blood makes this a great daily herbal tea.
Red Clover — can help build blood and improve skin, is suggested for those who are overworked and feel daily fatigue and is a great herb for those wanting to improve fertility.
As you can see, nutritive herbs are great to support the body as a whole. Be sure to research which herbs you want to keep for certain nutrition components to be able to support your health.
Thanks for being a dedicated reader! I will be up with our next herb asap with some yummy recipes!
Wow thank you for all this insight! I've been curious about herbs for some time now and appreciate your words a lot! :)
What a fantastic overview! Great info, thank you for sharing!