Nutritive Herbs for Better Health

The phrase “Let food be thy medicine” is frequently cited to emphasize that a balanced diet is the most effective way to obtain all the nutrients our bodies require. Ideally, everyone would maintain a perfect diet that provides a full range of vitamins, minerals, and macronutrients, allowing our bodies to function smoothly. However, this is not always achievable, and additional support may be necessary to complete our nutritional gaps. Whether it's to address dietary gaps, boost nutrition during illness, or meet increased demands during pregnancy and breastfeeding, herbs can be beneficial!

Many common herbs have high vitamin and mineral content and can provide a pleasant way to enhance your daily nutrition. Today I’ll share some information on a handful of the most nutritive herbs that we recommend at Apollo's Botanicals.

Nettle

Urtica dioica

Many people rely on Nettles to navigate allergy season successfully. Besides aiding the body in managing its reaction to allergens, Nettles acts as a potent anti-histamine and offers significant relief from allergy symptoms. While you're enjoying easier breathing, you can also benefit from the softer skin and shinier hair that Nettles provide, thanks to its rich vitamin and mineral content.

Nettles is highly valued due to its abundant levels of iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium, and numerous other vitamins and minerals that boost energy and vitality. This herb is ideal for those recovering from prolonged illnesses, experiencing general fatigue, or needing a boost in appetite for life and food. Nettles also alleviates arthritic joint pain, enhances circulation throughout the body, and can be applied topically for these benefits (consult an herbalist). Additionally, Nettles supports liver and kidney function and assists in detoxifying the urinary system by flushing out accumulated toxins.

It's no surprise that Nettles is among the first plants to sprout in spring, making it perfect for spring cleansing.

Oatstraw

Avena Sativa

Oatstraw is comes from the same plant that produces the oats we typically have for breakfast. It is rich in iron, manganese, and zinc, and also offers significant amounts of magnesium, potassium, and selenium. This herb is particularly beneficial for the nervous system and is gentle and safe for general use.

Dried oatstraw is abundant in minerals that promote long-term nervous system health and help fortify bones, hair, teeth, and nails. The most effective results are achieved by using it over several months to several years.

Red Clover

Trifolium pratense

All parts of the Red Clover plant are edible, but the flowers are most frequently foraged and used dried in teas and nourishing infusions. Red clover's vibrant flowers are rich in nutrients, including calcium, chromium, magnesium, niacin, phosphorus, potassium, thiamine, and vitamin C.

Although it was traditionally used as an alterative and anti-cancer herb, Red clover is also excellent for promoting skin health and clarity, by gently stimulating lymph movement. Red clover protects against xenoestrogens, alleviates PMS symptoms, and is particularly beneficial for menopause support, easing issues such as vaginal dryness and hot flashes.

All of these herbs may be combined to make a delightful daily tea that we commonly recommend in our shop – check out the “Herbal Multivitamin” blend or "PMS Support" blend in our shop. This has been an introduction to nutritive herbs but is not comprehensive! There are many others that may be added or substituted to tailor a blend to individual needs. If you are interested in finding the right solution for you, check out our Holistic Health Coaching Sessions.