10 Health-Enhancing Herbs for Christmas

Many common herbs and plants have medicinal properties. Here are a few that may come in handy over the festive period.

You don’t have to be in Harry Potter’s Herbology class to learn about the healing powers of plants and herbs.  These may be useful over the forthcoming festive period.

Sandalwood – will cure pimples, soften skin and iron out wrinkles.  You'll be ready to party.

Thyme – if you’re feeling stressed with all the hype make yourself a mini bonfire of thyme leaves on Christmas morning.  The smoke is said to lift depression and anxiety.

Ginger – if you’re on the move over the festive period, stem ginger not only tastes good but combats travel sickness too.

Sage – is not just for stuffing the turkey.  Mix the leaves with honey to make an energy-giving infusion.

Lemon balm – if all the excitement gets a bit much try a mug of lemon balm tea to banish a tension headache.

Liquorice – now you’re shot of your headache, liquorice reputedly has aphrodisiac properties.  It even gets a mention in the Kama Sutra – be careful with the liquorice allsorts!

Peppermint oil – if you’ve over-indulged on the mince pies a few drops will help combat upset stomachs and flatulence.

Lavender – a few drops on your pillow will help you to sleep.  Or it will make lying awake more pleasant.

Fennel – a few seeds dropped into hot water will help if you wake up next day with a hangover.

Chamomile tea – is good for the shock when you get your credit card bill in January.