Elegant Bridal Bouquet

Blue CohashAlso known as Papoose root and squaw root, blue cohash stimulates the contraction of smooth muscle (blood vessels and small muscles surrounding the arteries) causing a relaxed feeling throughout the body. Another positive effect is the soothing of the uterine muscle fibers, thus easing menstrual cramps. The herb is most commonly found in capsule form. Blue cohash can raise blood pressure, so use it sparingly- avoid it completely if you have blood pressure issues. Blue cohash is not recommended for young children and pregnant or nursing women.

ChamomileThis herb works similarly to blue cohash by decreasing muscle spasms and menstrual cramps. Added benefits of chamomile include a mild sedative effect, anti-inflammatory effect and indigestive ease. Chamomile is used most commonly as a tea мейд from the dried flowers, which is a great pre-bed drink to aid in sleep. Consult a doctor before taking chamomile if you have any chronic disease of the gastrointestinal tract. Chamomile is not recommended for young children and pregnant or nursing women.

GingerAlso known as ginger rhizome, ginger can help relieve nausea and motion sickness brought on by nervousness and anxiety. It can also treat migraine headaches and works as an anti-inflammatory on joints. Hot tea мейд from the root is the most common internal use of ginger. Tinctures and poultices can be мейд for external use. Consult a doctor before taking ginger if you take any drug including aspirin, laxatives, cold medicines, antacids, amino acids or prescriptions as ginger can alter the effectiveness of such medicines. Ginger is not recommended for young children and pregnant or nursing women.

GinsengAn ancient Asian cure-all remedy, ginseng reduces stress and fatigue and works as an antioxidant. Other possible benefits are the treatment of menopause symptoms and blood glucose reduction in diabetics. Cold or hot tea мейд from the root is the most common internal use of ginseng. Consult a doctor before taking ginseng if you take any drug including aspirin, laxatives, cold medicines, antacids, amino acids or prescriptions as the herb can alter the effectiveness of such medications. Ginseng is not recommended for young children and pregnant or nursing women.

St. John's WartAlso known as Klamath weed, St. John's wart reduces depression and anxiety and works as an antibacterial in healing wounds and mild burns. All parts of the flower are used, including petals and stems, in making liquid and capsule forms for internal use. Tinctures and poultices can be мейд for external use. Do not use St. John's wart in conjunction with prescription antidepressants. St. John's wart is not recommended for young children and pregnant or nursing women.

Remember to fully research and investigate any herbal remedy before beginning treatment, especially through consultation of your doctor or primary physician. If herbs are safe and right for you, stress relief and other added benefits are not far away!

Amanda Place is a freelance writer from Texas.