Using herbs in order to boost wellness is not a new thing, but do you feel as though you’ve ever really harnessed their benefits before? Herbs can help with everything from sleep and sex drive to energy levels and skin quality, making them a popular choice for supplementation in the wellness community.
We caught up with Jess Blair, naturopath and nutritionist, and she gave us the lowdown on how and why you should make 2019 your year of the herbs.
The why
The concept of herbs has funny connotations. Although naturopathy and herbs are deemed as a bit alternative, they’re rapidly starting to get some more mainstream attention. People often think that the ‘herbs’ naturopaths talk about are completely left-field and unobtainable, but they’re herbs that you can find at your local supermarket or health food store, and can be easily integrated into your everyday routine. They’re not only great for cooking but also have incredible therapeutic and medicinal benefits. They can help support you in a time of need, and also help keep your immunity in check.
In a day and age where we are constantly connected to our phones, our workday never ceases to end, we have to really put an effort in to switch off. There are some amazing herbs that can help our nervous system and support our bodies to help us to switch off and give us that much-needed mental break.
Herbs to consider
These are the go-to herbs that Jess encourages you to incorporate into your routine for 2019:
Adaptogenic herbs
These are some of Jess’ personal favourites to use and recommend, and they’re only going to be gaining more and more traction in the new year. They have a unique way of helping our bodies ability to deal with stress as well as helping the immune system, and combat fatigue as well as help with muscle repair.
Ashwagandha
A herb that is used in naturopathic and ayurvedic medicine that helps with stress, exhaustion, insomnia and also helps regulate the metabolic system. It is high in antioxidants and is immunomodulating and anti-inflammatory as well. Ashwagandha is best to be taken under the guidance of a professional, but it can be safely taken over long periods of time as well.
Turmeric
We all know about turmeric and it’s powerful benefits. It can be used in supplements and cooking, or as the base of those delicious turmeric lattes, we see on Instagram. Curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric and is anti-inflammatory and a powerful antioxidant.
Coriander
Yes, Coriander is a great garnish but it actually has a lot of therapeutic benefits as well! Also known as cilantro in some countries, it’s really high in vitamins and minerals, especially Vitamin C! Another great benefit of coriander is that it can help relieve an upset stomach, by reducing inflammation in the gastric tract. Next time you are cooking, load up the coriander to your salad or dish and you are instantly improving your health.
Jess Blair is a Naturopath, Nutritionist and Founder of holistic lifestyle education and consultation platform, Wellness by Blair. The online hub was established by Jess, who takes a rounded approach to health and wellbeing by combining her knowledge in naturopathy, nutrition and fitness. Specialising in women’s health, thyroid and hormonal issues, body image and family wellbeing, Jess is passionate about educating Australians on how to best achieve optimal health for both themselves and their families. For more on Jess, visit her website or follow her on Instagram.
