Like it or not, the cool air will settle in on Northeast Ohio – along with the dampness. For many of us – and that includes me – being chilled most of the winter is something one just expects. Turning up the heat may be helpful, but it can also be very costly! When I find myself in those awful predicaments of just not being able to get warm unless I go for a nice run or take a very hot shower, neither of which is always possible, I reach for a warming herb.
Warming herbs generally speed up metabolic processes, increase peripheral circulation, are generally stimulating in nature. Here are five for you to try to help ‘dry up the bones’ and warm the heart – and body. All of these herbs below have warming properties along with the other beneficial effects stated.
1. Cinnamon
Cinnamon is good for people who complain that they are always cold, no matter what the thermostat says. Cinnamon dries dampness in the body that causes the chilled-to-the-bone feeling and stimulates circulation. It’s an excellent digestive tonic, immune booster, and blood sugar regulator. Add a teaspoon to coffee grounds before brewing for a gourmet flavor minus the price! Add to oatmeal, granola, or ginger tea for a double warming whammy!
2. Ginger
Ginger will help ward off colds and flu, stimulate circulation, and cleanse your lymph nodes. It boosts the immune system, fights allergies, lowers cholesterol, relieves arthritis pain, stimulates digestion, fights nausea and morning sickness, and warms the body.
3. Horseradish
High in vitamin C, this herb and aids in the digestion of fatty foods. Horseradish is antiseptic and a strong decongestant, helping to open congested respiratory passages. It is also used to treat colds, congestion, coughs, inflammation, indigestion. And I know a woman who has used it for years to keep her long hair thick, shiny, and beautiful!
4. Garlic
Garlic is an incredible herb for the immune system—antibacterial and antiviral. It improves circulation and keeps blood cells from clumping together. Garlic also lowers glucose metabolism in diabetics, aids heart health, kills parasites, heals wounds, and is anti-carcinogenic. Garlic should be taken at the very first sign of a cold or sore throat to be most beneficial. It’s a staple in my house.
5. Cayenne
This is definitely my favorite herb of choice. It works almost instantly and I can feel it spread out like dye that has been placed in a glass of warm water. It totally works for me! Cayenne improves circulation, and can reduce stomach ailments such as gas or cramping. This herb helps relieve chills, coughs, and congestion, improves poor circulation, and strengthens weak digestion. Take internally in tincture or capsule form to invigorate the blood. Sprinkling a bit of cayenne pepper between one’s shoes and socks can help warm the feet when needing to be outdoors. Cayenne is sold in capsule form, so you need not suffer the burning if you aren’t a hot spice lover!
Yes…Wicked Winter is coming and there’s nothing we can do about that. But we CAN counter it with powerful herbal ammunition! Stock up and be prepared. Find what works for you and your family and you’ll find you can pass this season with a little more joy – and a bit of a smug feeling!
If you are looking for a site that has reasonable prices and a huge selection along with excellent customer service, I would recommend https://www.swansonvitamins.com/. You will still have to experiment to see what brand works best, but I have used this company for years and am sold!
Have you found any herbs that are especially helpful for you? Share them with us!