Grocery and Gourmet : Herbal Teas : Lavender, Calendula and Hibiscus Herbs

My friend, Clara Myers, is an excellent GO TO Advisor for holistic medicine, natural remedies, alternative healthcare, etc.  We have been Facebook friends for years. She has published several articles on health and wellness, and holistic health at Wizzley.com.  Additionally, she has several websites and blogs where she shares her helpful advice and product suggestions and reviews.  Here is her advice regarding the use of lavender, calendula, and hibiscus.

“A flower essence, also known as a hydrosol, is the distilled water containing the extract of chemical hormones that make a flower bloom. Essences are very beneficial to the emotions because they break down attitudes that no longer serve our growth. For instance, the oil of lavender might be used to help the physical body relax, while the essence of lavender might help adjust an attitude.”   (Aromatherapy and Natural Skin Care) 

 

“Marigolds, also known as calendula, have a long history of uses as anti-inflammatories and astringents. It has been used in tinctures, ointments, and washes for centuries to heal bruises, burns, cuts and minor infections.”   (Calendula Benefits for Skin Care) 

We all know that high blood pressure is very damaging to the heart and can lead to heart attacks. We also know there are a number of prescription medications aimed at reducing blood pressure to take pressure off the heart and reduce the risk of heart attack. But these drugs also have terrible side effects and there are natural means to relieve the effects of hypertension. Hibiscus is on Clara's list of herbals that can be used to lower the blood pressure naturally.   (Herbs for Heart Health) 

In addition to Clara's advice, my further research revealed that lavender, calendula, and hibiscus can also be made into a tea drink with several health benefits.

• Some experts say lavender tea can help with insomnia.
• Calendula tea has 14 medicinal uses, including healing a sore threat and diaper rash.
• The benefits of hibiscus tea are numerous; it can reduce the risk of cancer, help with weight loss and more.

  Cautionary facts about these flowers:

• The New England Journal of Medicine reported that lavender oils may induce breast growth in boys.
• The University of Maryland Medical Center advises that calendula orally may interact with: sedatives and meds used to treat high blood pressure and diabetes.
• According to Medical News Today, hibiscus can interact with certain medications. For example, people who take chloroquine, a medication used to treat malaria, should not consume hibiscus because it may decrease how well the medicine works in the body.

Many people combine traditional and alternative or holistic methods to cure an ailment. As always, people should consult their healthcare providers before undertaking herbal treatments or remedies.

Organic Lavender Flowers (Extra Grade - Dried) - 16oz Resealable Bag

Organic Calendula Flowers - Whole - 4oz Resealable Bag

Organic Hibiscus Flowers - Cut & Sifted - 16oz Resealable Bag