Finding it hard to get to sleep at night? Run down? Feeling tired or stressed? All you need is the right herb and some water.
Editor Jane Garton shares a few DIY herbal remedies.
GET SOME SLEEP
If you can’t get to sleep at night or wake up in the early hours and can’t get back to sleep a calming cup of valerian tea may be the answer. All you have to do is add one teaspoon of dried herbs to a cup of boiling water. Leave to infuse for 10 to 15 minutes before straining and drinking. Adding a little honey will make it sweeter.
CLEAR YOUR HEAD
If you’ve got a cold brewing or feel heavy in the head, a herbal inhalation can help to make things clearer. Add three teaspoons of dried herbs to a bowl of boiling water – eucalyptus or thyme are good choices. Put a towel over your head and gently lower your face over the bowl. Inhale for around 10 minutes.
WAKE UP YOUR EYES
When it comes to soothing tired and weary eyes camomile is the herb to go for. Place a tea bag in boiling water, then leave until cold. Soak cotton wool pads in the cold tea and place over your eyes for a few moments.
CALM DOWN
If you are feeling stressed or anxious, a soothing lavender bath can help to calm you. Simply tie a muslin bag filled with dried lavender over the tap so the infused water runs into the bath.
BOOST IMMUNITY
As the weather turns colder it’s time to boost your immunity. Ginger is excellent as it increases the blood supply to the cells that support the immune system. To make an infusion peel a piece of root ginger into a mug and top up with boiling water. Leave to stand for 10 minutes before drinking.
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