There are a variety natural herbs and oils that can replace many of the synthetic products in your family’s medicine cabinet. Here are four to consider keeping on hand.

Rosehip Oil

It’s all the rage now that royal Kate Middleton confessed that her secret of fresh glowing skin is Mother Nature’s very own fountain of youth: rosehip oil. It is high in vitamin C, essential fatty acids (omega 3, 6, and 9) and B-carotene, a form of vitamin A. It is known to reduce stretch marks, fine lines and wrinkles. The oil works to speed up cell regeneration reducing the appearance of scars and burns. It can also improve scar tissue left behind by acne, dermatitis and psoriasis; however, it shouldn’t be applied to active acne. It is cost effective and can be found in most health food stores.

Turmeric

Sufferers of arthritis can remedy their pain with just a few short steps to their kitchen. Research has indicated that curcumin, the active ingredient in the Middle Eastern spice turmeric, is more effective in alleviating symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis than the NSAID drug Voltaren. Curcumin is most known for its potent anti-inflammatory properties. Found in most grocery stores, turmeric is an accessible spice that can be mixed with a carrier oil and applied to the area of pain and inflammation.

Hellichrysum

The flower known as the “immortelle” or “everlasting” is something that should never be on short supply. Hellichrysum, a highly effective herb or flower, is antibacterial, anticatarrhal, anticoagulant, antioxidant, antispasmodic, antiviral, expectorant, and mucolytic. What does this mean? It means it can treat a wide variety of ailments. The oil can be used in a diffuser so its healing properties can be inhaled. The herb can be made into a salve for topical treatment. It aids in expediting the regeneration process of cells and is an all in one healing elixir for the whole body.

St John’s Wort

The herb that affects the mind also helps the body. St John’s Wort is known to help with mild to moderate depression and also aides in relieving muscle pain. It can be applied topically as a salve for open wounds, cuts and bruises due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Note it may cause sensitivity to sunlight when applied directly to the skin. It may help with incontinence and is an analgesic. It can be ingested as a tincture or in pill form. St John’s Wort can interact with other medicines or supplements, so be sure to check with a health professional before using.

Misty Dawn, LMT, NMT, and Reiki Master, offers these healing herbs in her line of Healing Massage Candles that burn like a candle and then turn into moisture rich oil. The oil can be used for all-natural healing including treatment of pain and inflammation, as well as for hydration and anti-aging. You can find her healing candles online at RadiantSpirits.wordpress.com. Watch for her storefront opening soon in Sebastian.