Holistic wellness cabinet must haves
For anyone who is starting their collection of holistic herbs and remedies, this post is for you! I have read several herbal books, and have gotten advice from my functional doctor to help make this resource for you. So if you don’t have access to those things, I pray this resource will serve you and your family well!
Here is my amazon affiliate link to all of the supplements we take as a family. Can also find a lot of these at whole foods, holistic herbal shops, or your functional doctors office. I’ve also included some herbal books in this link.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to the must-haves, including their benefits and how to use them.
Herbs and Teas
Elderberry Syrup
Benefits:
Elderberries are packed with antioxidants and vitamin c. Studies show that elderberry extract may reduce the duration and severity of cold and flu symptoms when taken at onset of illness.
Use: for immune support, especially during cold and flu season. I have linked a tincture but you can also look up recipes to make your own!
Mullein Leaf
Benefits:
Mullein leaf is a powerful herb for respiratory health. It soothes inflamed airways, helps clear mucus, and supports lung function.
Use: Brew as a tea for coughs, colds, and congestion. Or get the tincture in my storefront called “Cough be gone” that includes it!
Turmeric
Benefits:
Rich in curcumin, turmeric is a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. It’s great for reducing inflammation, boosting immunity, and improving joint health.
Use: Add to teas, golden milk, or meals for daily wellness support. I love adding this to my chicken noodle soup.
Cloves
Benefits:
Cloves have antimicrobial properties and are excellent for oral health and digestion. They can also help reduce inflammation and provide pain relief. It’s also been known to reduce fevers.
Use: Brew clove tea for stomach discomfort or use clove oil (diluted) for toothaches.
Chamomile Tea
Benefits:
Chamomile is a calming herb that promotes relaxation, eases digestion, and improves sleep.
Use: Sip before bed to wind down or after meals for digestive support.
Vitamins and Supplements
Vitamin C
Benefits:
Vitamin C boosts the immune system, reduces the duration of colds, and supports skin health.
Use: Take daily as a supplement or in the form of C salts for quick absorption.
Zinc
Benefits:
Zinc is essential for immune function, wound healing, and reducing the severity of colds.
Use: Take at the first sign of illness or as part of a daily immune-support regimen.
Iodine Drops
Benefits:
Iodine supports thyroid health, balances hormones, and has antiseptic properties.
Use: Take a few drops daily if deficient, or use topically for minor cuts.
Boron (Oscillococcinum)
Benefits:
Oscillococcinum is a homeopathic remedy often used to reduce flu-like symptoms and boost recovery.
Use: Take at the onset of flu symptoms.
Probiotics
Benefits:
Probiotics support gut health by promoting a balanced microbiome, which is crucial for immunity and digestion.
Use: Incorporate as a daily supplement to maintain gut health. Also great to eat probiotic foods like fermented veggies, kefir, yogurt, and kombucha.
Natural Remedies
Manuka Honey
Benefits:
Manuka honey has antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. It soothes sore throats, aids digestion, and promotes wound healing.
Use: Take a spoonful for sore throats or use topically for cuts and burns.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Benefits:
ACV helps with digestion, balances pH levels, and supports immunity.
Use: Mix 1-2 teaspoons in water and drink daily for digestive and immune support.
Colloidal Silver Drops
Benefits:
Colloidal silver is a natural antimicrobial agent that supports the immune system.
Use: Use as drops for sinus infections or as a topical solution for skin irritations.
Skincare and Body Detox
Aloe Vera Gel
Benefits:
Aloe vera is soothing, hydrating, and healing for skin irritations, sunburns, and wounds.
Use: Apply directly to the skin for burns, rashes, or dry patches.
Bentonite Clay Baths
Benefits:
Bentonite clay helps detoxify the body, draw out toxins, and relieve viral symptoms.
Use: Add 1-2 cups of bentonite clay to a warm bath for detoxification.
Magnesium (As epsom salt baths or spray)
Benefits:
Magnesium is essential for muscle relaxation, sleep support, and stress management. A deficiency in magnesium is linked to a range of issues, from headaches to poor sleep.
Use: Use a topical spray or lotion (linking my favorite ones below not from amazon) or soak in an epsom salt or magnesium bath before bed.
Essential Oils
Frankincense Oil
Benefits:
Frankincense oil supports immunity, reduces inflammation, and promotes emotional balance.
Use: Diffuse for relaxation, or dilute and apply topically for skin health.
Peppermint Oil
Benefits:
Peppermint oil alleviates headaches, supports digestion, and provides relief from nausea.
Use: Dilute and apply to temples for headaches or mix with a carrier oil for massages.
Start with these staples and customize your collection to suit your family’s unique needs.
***Always consult a healthcare professional before introducing new supplements or remedies, especially for children or if pregnant.
**This is not medical advice. This is what my family and I use, I hope it serves as a good resource for you.
What’s your go-to remedy? Share your tips and experiences in the comments!
References
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences (2015)
Aggarwal, B. B., & Harikumar, K. B. (2009). Anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric. Biochemical Pharmacology.
Cortés-Rojas, D. F., et al. (2014). Clove’s medicinal properties. Phytotherapy Research.
McKay, D. L., & Blumberg, J. B. (2006). Chamomile tea review. Phytotherapy Research.
Source: Hemilä, H. (2017). Vitamin C and the common cold. Nutrients.
Prasad, A. S. (2008). Zinc in human health. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
Zimmermann, M. B. (2009). Iodine deficiency and thyroid health. Endocrine Reviews.
Clinical Evidence in Homeopathy (2004).
Source: Cooper, R. A., et al. (2010). Manuka honey’s antibacterial properties. Journal of Clinical Pathology.
Source: Kondo, T. (2014). ACV health benefits. Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry.
Wright, J. B., et al. (2002). Silver’s antimicrobial properties. Burns.
Source: Surjushe, A., et al. (2008). Aloe vera in dermatology. Indian Journal of Dermatology.
Source: Calabrese, E. J., et al. (2012). Detoxification with clays. Environmental Geochemistry and Health.
Source: Suhail, M. M., et al. (2011). Frankincense oil and inflammation. Journal of Ethnopharmacology.
Source: Grigoleit, H. G., & Grigoleit, P. (2005). Peppermint oil for digestion. Phytomedicine.
