Mentha x piperita
Peppermint
Peppermint is one of the most beloved and widely used herbs across the world. Historically, the ancient Egyptians used peppermint in both cooking and for its medicinal properties. It’s been revered for centuries to support the digestive system, but it also offers energizing benefits, helping to uplift the mind and body. Peppermint was used in ancient Rome as a natural remedy for colds and digestive issues, and its leaves were often added to baths to enhance mental clarity and focus.
Stachys officinalis
Wood Betony
Wood Betony is an herb with deep roots in European herbalism, dating back to the Middle Ages. Known as a “herb for the head,” it has been traditionally used to ease headaches, anxiety, and nervous tension. Wood Betony was prized by ancient herbalists for its calming qualities and was often used to help relax the body and mind. This herb was so highly regarded that it was even believed to have protective qualities against evil spirits in folklore! It’s a great herb for overall vitality, helping to restore balance and alleviate feelings of stress or discomfort.
Plantago lanceolata
Plantain Leaf
Plantain has a long history of use across both European and Native American traditions. In Native American herbalism, it was often referred to as “the healer’s herb,” as it was believed to have the ability to address a wide range of ailments. Historically, Plantain was used topically to soothe skin irritations and internal discomforts. Plantain’s broad, sturdy leaves have earned it the nickname “white man’s foot,” as the herb is commonly found growing in disturbed soil near human settlements. This resilient herb is known for its calming properties and is often used for its ability to balance and soothe the body.
Althaea officinalis
Marshmallow
Marshmallow has been used since ancient Egyptian times, where it was prized for its soothing qualities. Known for its mucilaginous texture, Marshmallow root has been traditionally used in herbal medicine to calm inflammation and irritations. Marshmallow was originally made from the root of the plant, which was used to make the sweet treat we know today. While the candy has evolved over time, Marshmallow’s medicinal properties remain well-loved in herbal medicine for soothing discomfort and promoting healthy skin.
Filipendula ulmaria
Meadowsweet
Meadowsweet is an herb with a rich history in European herbal medicine, particularly in the British Isles. It’s closely associated with ancient Celtic rituals and was believed to be sacred. Meadowsweet’s calming, anti-inflammatory properties were revered by herbalists, and it was used to help ease sore muscles, headaches, and digestive discomfort. Meadowsweet contains a compound similar to aspirin (salicylic acid), which is why it has been historically used as a remedy for pain and inflammation. It’s a gentle herb that supports the body’s natural ability to restore balance and comfort.
Calendula officinalis
Calendula
Calendula has a vibrant golden-orange hue that has been cherished for centuries for its healing properties. Native to Southern Europe, it has long been used as a remedy for minor wounds, rashes, and skin irritations. Calendula was a favorite of the ancient Greeks and Romans, who used the petals in their food and medicine, believing it to have both physical and spiritual healing properties. Known for its ability to promote skin health and ease inflammation, Calendula is also a mild, soothing herb that has a longstanding place in both topical and internal herbal remedies.
Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion Leaf
Dandelion is often seen as a pesky weed, but it has a rich history of use in herbal medicine, stretching back thousands of years. Ancient herbalists prized every part of the dandelion for its health benefits—roots, leaves, and flowers. It was traditionally used in European herbal medicine for its ability to support liver health and cleanse the body. Dandelions were once considered so valuable that they were cultivated for both food and medicinal purposes during times of scarcity. Today, Dandelion leaf is often used as a gentle detoxifier and a tonic to help the body restore balance.
Calluna vulgaris
Heather
Heather has a long history in European and Celtic traditions, where it was believed to have protective and healing qualities. Heather was often used in baths, tonics, and infusions for its calming effects on both the body and mind. Fun fact: Heather is considered a symbol of good luck in folklore, and it was believed to have the ability to ward off evil spirits. It is used for its gentle calming properties, helping to ease anxiety and promote peaceful sleep. Known for its nurturing qualities, Heather is a favorite herb for restoring harmony and peace.
Centaurea cyanus
Cornflower
Cornflower, with its striking blue petals, has been used in herbal medicine for centuries. It was traditionally used to soothe and calm the body, particularly for eye health and skin conditions. Cornflower has a gentle, cooling effect and was often used as a mild remedy in teas and infusions. The flower was once considered a symbol of love and loyalty in European folklore, and it was worn in traditional floral garlands. It is celebrated for its calming, soothing qualities, and is known for its ability to gently promote balance in the body.