May is the month of the Coronation and Bank Holiday weekends. And now that the weather is on the up there’s good reason to celebrate some time off with a party. But as most of us know only too well, overindulgence in food and drink as well as a couple of late nights can put a strain on the body that can leave you feeling run down and sluggish. On the other hand there are some herbal remedies that can help to keep you ahead of the game firing on all cylinders.
Here’s how to healthproof coronation and bank holiday celebrations with some digestion-friendly and uplifting herbs.
Milk thistle
The active ingredient in Milk Thistle called silymarin has been shown to provide relief from the symptoms associated with occasional over-indulgence in drink and food such as indigestion and upset stomach. It is thought to work by helping to protect the liver from alcohol damage and premature ageing by helping to regenerate liver cells.
Artichoke
Extracts of artichoke can help the digestive process by stimulating the production of bile and breaking down and eliminating fatty foods and alcohol from the body. If you know a night of indulgence lies ahead, take twice a day before food as a protective measure.
Ginger
A cup of freshly grated ginger tea can also do wonders for settling an upset stomach. Just grate around 1cm of ginger root into a cup and cover with boiling water. Leave to infuse for a few minutes before sipping slowly.
Valerian
If too many late nights are taking their toll, and when you eventually get to bed you are too wired to fall asleep, it could be time for a dose of soothing valerian. Long used by the ancient Greeks and Romans as a mild sedative, its active ingredients include volatile oils, iridoids and alkaloids, which help to calm you down ready for a sound night’s slumber.
Rhodiola
If you are too tired and low in energy to party, rhodiola, which grows in the Arctic mountains of Siberia, will perk you up in no time.
Ginseng
Panax ginseng is another herb that can help to fuel your energy tank. It belongs to a group of herbs known as adaptogens, which are thought to help strengthen the adrenals and balance the system generally making it ideal for boosting vitality and energy.
Essential Oils
Essential oils used in a burner, diffuser or dropped into your bath can also help to lift the spirits. Go for the ‘sunshine’ oils which include grapefruit, orange, and bergamot. Rosemary, basil, and peppermint also have stimulating and invigorating properties.
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