Herbal Digest DailyWellness Herbal Tea By Gaia Herbs DailyWellness Overview & Drug Interactions

Peppermint is a perennial herb that is native to Europe and Asia. It is a member of the mint family (Lamiaceae) and is known for its fragrant, minty aroma and distinctive, spear-shaped leaves. Peppermint is commonly used in cooking and aromatherapy, as well as in a variety of personal care products. It has a refreshing, cool, and slightly sweet flavor. In traditional medicine, peppermint is believed to have a number of health benefits. It is thought to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects, and it is sometimes used to treat a variety of conditions, including digestive problems, respiratory infections, and skin disorders. Peppermint is also commonly used as a natural treatment for colds and flu due to its expectorant properties. Some peppermint supplements are marketed specifically towards those suffering from IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) as evidence shows it can help reduce symptoms in some individuals.

Anise, also known as Pimpinella anisum, is an herb native to the eastern Mediterranean region and Southwest Asia. The seeds are known for their mildly sweet, licorice-like flavor. The main compound in anise responsible for the licorice-like taste and odor is anethole. Anise seeds are often used in baking and liquors. It is especially popular during the winter holiday season. It has a long history of use in traditional medicine and has been used to treat a variety of conditions, including digestive problems, respiratory disorders, and insomnia. Anise is also used as a natural remedy for cough, sore throat, and other respiratory problems.

Licorice, also known as glycyrrhiza, is a plant native to parts of Europe, Asia, and the Mediterranean region. The root of the plant has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and is often consumed in the form of candy, tea, and supplements. Licorice has a number of purported health benefits, including the ability to soothe sore throats, reduce inflammation, and improve digestive problems. It may also have antiviral and antibacterial properties. Licorice naturally contains glycyrrhizin, or glycyrrhizic acid, which can have toxic effects if consumed in large amounts. However, licorice can be processed to remove glycyrrhizin, resulting in DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice). Many dietary supplements that contain deglycyrrhizinated licorice are often simply named 'DGL'.

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) is a perennial herb that is native to Europe, Asia, and North America. The whole plant, including the leaves, flowers, and stem, has been used for centuries for its purported medical benefits. Yarrow is thought to have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties and is commonly used to treat wounds, cuts, and skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. It is also used to treat colds, flu and fever. Additionally, yarrow has also been used to treat gastrointestinal disorders, such as indigestion and diarrhea.

Caraway is an herb native to Asia, Africa, and Europe. The seeds, fruit, and oil are used in cooking and for medicinal purposes. Its seeds have a pungent, anise-like flavor and aroma. In regard to its medical use, it has been historically used to increase breast milk production, and to treat a variety of conditions such as gastrointestinal issues, asthma, amenorrhea, and obesity, to name a few.

Ginger is a spice native to Asia and part of the Zingiberaceae family. It has a pungent, spicy flavor and is often used to add flavor to dishes and drinks. Ginger has a long history of use in traditional medicine and is believed to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and other medicinal properties. It is commonly used to treat nausea, motion sickness, and other digestive issues. Ginger is also sometimes used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Ginger supplements generally standardize several compounds found in the root, and are often labeled as containing a certain amount of 'ginger root extract'.