More people are turning to herbal medicines in their search for more natural and gentle health care. Herbal remedies are cost-effective and offer relief from an abundance of ailments.

However, self-medication is cautioned, as herbal remedies can have short-term or long-term effects.

Most spices are not consumed in large amounts so the average person will not notice their effect. Large or long-term doses of any spice or herb to achieve a desired health benefit should not be taken without consulting a physician.

As every human has individual needs, the health benefits of all herbs and spices may vary from person to person. Also potencies vary among the many different preparation methods and brands.

Always follow label directions, unless otherwise prescribed by a herbologist, traditional Chinese doctor, Ayurvedic doctor, naturopathic or homeopathic doctor or other certified natural health care provider.

Here is a list of the most popular herbs and spices and their health supporting benefits:

Allspice is suggested to be effective for stomach ailments, and as a digestive aid.

Anise may relieve bloating and indigestion. It may also help to clear breathing passages when a person is suffering from congestion.

Basil has anti-inflammatory properties. It is a source for Vitamin K, iron, calcium, vitamin A, manganese, magnesium, vitamin C, and potassium. It’s said to be beneficial for the heart and digestion. Basil is known to carry a number of healthy effects, particularly on the cardiovascular system. The herb is also rich in powerful antioxidants.

Chamomile. This gentle herb is a traditional remedy for upset stomach. Research shows that, used topically, it helps condition the skin. People with hay fever may react to chamomile.

Caraway is believed to help with bronchitis, colds, cough, fever, liver and gallbladder problems. It also has properties that help reduce bloating and cramping and bowel spasms. Large doses of the oil taken for long periods can lead to potential kidney and liver damage.

Cardamom is said to relieve stomach problems, digestion and heartburn. It has been used in traditional Chinese and Indian medicine for over 3,000 years, especially for fever, digestive and urinary complaints.

Cat's Claw is a traditional Peruvian folk remedy for inflammation and arthritis. It is a believed to be a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. People receiving a skin graft or organ transplant should not take cat's claw. Excessive intake may result in diarrhea. Cat's claw may also reduce the long term risk of cancer.

Cayenne pepper is sometimes used to stimulate the circulatory as well as digestive systems. It aids in the normal functioning of kidneys, pancreas, spleen, lungs and heart. It diminishes nausea, helps against rheumatism, improves rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis.

Chives are reputedly anti-inflammation, anti-carcinogenic, and antibiotic. They contain iron, and vitamins. Chives have high levels of vitamin C and A, and essential minerals such as potassium, calcium, and folic acid. It aids digestion and stimulates appetite.

Cinnamon is known to be a strong antiseptic. Cinnamon is used to relieve pain, including arthritis, and has sedative properties. It improves the circulation and has anti-inflammatory and blood thinning properties. Cinnamon may regulate blood sugar, a benefit for people with Type 2 diabetes. It is a source of manganese, fiber, iron, and calcium.

Cloves are good for digestion and reducing congestion. Clove oil is well known as a treatment for toothache, and its antiseptic properties make it an excellent mouthwash. The main ingredient in the oil is eugenol which is anti-inflammatory and can help ease the stiffness and pain associated with arthritis.

Coriander, the seed of the cilantro plant, is thought to help relieve headaches. Coriander seed may be helpful in easing gastrointestinal symptoms. Coriander is also used as an ingredient in some laxative preparations. Coriander seed may gently ease intestinal gassiness and bloating. It also revives appetite.

Cumin looks and smells like caraway seed. It is a good source of iron and manganese and is thought to help digestion and bloating. Make cumin tea by steeping 1 teaspoon of seeds in 1 pint of boiling water.

Dill can kill some intestinal bacteria and also helps to calm a nervous stomach.

Echinacea is used to boost the immune system. Recent studies have confirmed that echinacea can bolster resistance to colds and flues. People with autoimmune disorders, such as lupus and AIDS, should take echinacea under a physician's supervision.

Garlic has similar properties to onions with its antibiotic and anti-microbial properties. It is thought to help prevent heart disease and strokes. It is known as a blood thinner and cholesterol-lowering herb. Garlic is also a powerful immune stimulant that can help you resist disease.

Ginger helps digest high-fat foods and breaks down proteins, making it very good for the digestion. It is also thought to be good against arthritis. Ginger contains antioxidants and so can help protect against disease. It can help calm spasms and reduce flatulence in the digestive system.

Ginkgo is a brain booster. Studies show that gingko can slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease. Ginkgo is a blood thinner, so be carefull if you take other blood thinners, such as aspirin.

Ginseng is a stress fighter. Ginseng functions as a general tonic that increases well being. The antioxidants it contains may protect the brain from damage. Ginseng may make some people may feel anxious or overstimulated. Siberian ginseng enhances resistance to stress, whereas Panax ginseng increases physician and mental stamina.

Hawthorn. The berries of this tree can strengthen a weak heart. It does so gently and apparently without the side effects of other types of heart stimulants. If you are taking medication for heart failure, consult with your physician before taking hawthorn. Hawthorn is a powerful antioxidant, and it may also ease inflammation.

Horse Chestnut. This herb, made from the seed pod of the horse chestnut tree, can benefit many circulatory disorders, including restless legs. Horse chestnut may be beneficial for varicose veins and hemorrhoids.

Marjoram may help promote good digestion, soothe the stomach, digestive tract and relieve diarrhea. It acts as a decongestant and useful in bronchitis, asthma, sinusitis and sinus headaches. It is used as a warming and soothing message oil to provide relief for muscular ache. It is used to soothe the nerves, reduce tension, stress, insomnia, and migraines.

Milk Thistle. Detoxifier. Silymarin, the antioxidant complex extracted from milk thistle, exerts many of its benefit effects on the liver, the body's chemical processing organ. It is used to treat cirrhosis and alcoholic liver disease.

Nutmeg helps stimulate the brain, and works as an anti-inflammatory. Nutmeg is believed to aid digestion and relieve nausea and the sensation of vomiting. And while nutmeg may be used liberally in culinary preparations, care should be taken not to consume large amounts of it in concentrated form, as it can cause hallucinations and illness.

Oregano has powerful antioxidants. Oregano is used as an herbal remedy for respiratory problems such as coughs and bronchitis. According to folk, oregano has also been used to relieve bloating, gas, urinary tract problems, painful menstruation, rheumatoid arthritis, swollen glands, and lack of perspiration.

Parsley is thought to possess anti-carcinogenic properties, especially in relation to the lungs. Parsley is rich in vitamins A and C. Parsley is also a source of folic acid, another vitamin that helps reduce cancer risk and atherosclerosis. It contains vitamin K, and iron. Oxalic acid in parsley prevents calcium absorption and may contribute to gallstones and kidney stones. People concerned with low calcium should not eat excessive amounts of parsley.

Peppermint has been used to treat morning sickness and motion sickness. In addition to soothing the digestive tract and limiting indigestion, peppermint leaves have been shown to help alleviate the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. It's thought to help relieve symptoms of allergies and asthma as well.

Saffron may be taken to ease fatigue. Some believe that it also strengthens the cardio-vascular and nervous systems. Saffron can remedy sore gums, eliminate mental blocks and even help lower the rate of heart disease. It aids digestion, by increasing the appetite.

St. John's Wort is the premier natural antidepressant. In a review of the research on this herb, the British Medical Journal found that it worked better than prescription antidepressant drugs and had fewer side effects. It sometimes increases skin and eye sensitivity to sunlight.

Saw Palmetto eases urinary problems associated with enlarged prostate. The condition is common in men over age 50. In rare instances, saw palmetto may upset the stomach.
Tarragon can stimulate the appetite. It has been known to aid gas and relieve gas. A mild infusion is used to treat insomnia and hyperactivity.

Thyme can relieve cramps. Thyme is a powerful antiseptic. It is used in cases of anaemia and bronchial ailments and colds. It is used as an antiseptic against tooth decay, and destroys fungal infections as in athlete's foot and skin parasites such as crabs and lice.

Turmeric gives curry powder its deep yellow colour. Rich in antioxidants, researchers have discovered that it may help in the fight against cancer. Studies show that these curcuminoids may help to prevent Alzheimer's disease and joint inflammation. Turmeric is thought to improve the risk of gallstones. It also has anti-inflammatory properties.

Valerian is a natural sedative commonly used to treat insomnia and other sleep disorders. It can also be used to treat general anxiety and restlessness. It is used for pain relieving, strengthening the heart, lowering blood pressure, IBS, menstrual cramps, and for muscle spasms. It should not be taken over a long period of time, as it can cause mental depression in some people after long-term steady use. If you take valerian and drive, watch for signs of drowsiness.

Yarrow is used to stimulate and regulate the liver. It acts as a blood purifier and heals the glandular system. It is used in formulas for treating colds, flues, and fevers. It is used to stop the bleeding of external wounds.