- Stinging nettle
Nettle, perhaps more commonly known as "stinging nettle," is an herbalist’s best friend. High in minerals like calcium, iron, protein, and vitamin A, nettle is very nourishing and nutritive. Studies show that nettle can supply 90 to 100 percent of dietary vitamin A. Nettle is a wonderful ally for those suffering with seasonal allergies, as it has powerful antihistamine action.
How to use nettle: Drink nettle as a tea; the best method is to make an overnight infusion by pouring boiling water over the dried leaves, covering it, and letting the tea steep overnight. Nettle can also be used as a tincture or a vinegar or purchased in capsule form and even as a food (fresh nettle is delicious in pestos, soups, and the like). Just make sure to process by blending or cooking to break down the stinging hairs!
- Chamomile
Chamomile is a quintessential soothing herb, often drank as a tea before bed to induce sleepiness or to quiet an upset stomach—a cup of chamomile tea is like a warm hug in a mug. But chamomile is so much more than a sleepy-time tea! It has also been used traditionally to treat hay fever, inflammation, muscle spasms, menstrual disorders, ulcers, rheumatic pain, and hemorrhoids.
How to use chamomile: Chamomile is often brewed as a tea, but it can be taken as a tincture, honey, or syrup and used externally, too. Topically, chamomile can be used to treat diaper rash, chickenpox, ear or eye infections, blocked tear ducts, conjunctivitis, and poison ivy.