The Health Benefits of Herbs and Spices

Echinacea is another healthful tea used to fight colds, flu and infection. Research has shown Echinacea does boost the immune system and it is effective against upper respiratory infections, although some people are allergic to it. Echinacea should not be taken by people who are going to be anesthetized or who are taking immunosuppressant or hepatotoxic drugs for auto-immune or connective tissue disorders.

While it may not have the best flavor, valerian tea is used to treat anxiety and sleep disorders, as well as headaches and trembling. It is highly effective against nerve spikes experienced by amputees. Some people experience headaches or stomach aches when using Valerian. Add a little honey and peppermint and you should be fine.

Drink cranberry juice to get rid of a bladder infection. We've all heard the claim. Some swear by it as a treatment while others claim it only works as a preventative. Cranberry juice has also been used traditionally to prevent dental plaque. It won't hurt to have a glass now and then, just in case.

Many southeastern Chinese and Indian dishes use curry and fenugreek to add flavor and health benefits. Fenugreek is used to treat premenstrual symptoms and stomach problems, to stimulate the appetite and increase breast milk flow. Fenugreek lowers blood sugar and induces childbirth so it should not be used by women who are pregnant and should be used cautiously by diabetics. Curry has been shown to prevent colon cancer and Alzheimer's disease.