Herbalism for Beginners: 11 Must-Have Medicinal Herbs

Herbal medicine is the oldest system of healing on the planet. Modern medicine now runs the world, but more people than ever are rushing back to their roots. Herbalism for beginners is a slow process of educating yourself on the different herbs available and how to utilize them safely for your family.

Before we go any further, I want you to understand something. Herbalism isn’t fake, and there are real consequences to using it incorrectly. Humans have used herbs for nefarious purposes, and misuse may lead to unfortunate consequences.

So, I highly suggest you take time to truly study herbalism. Don’t rush this process. Take time to learn two or three herbs at a time, discovering ways you like to use them safely.

I also highly suggest you consider taking an herbalist course as you get started. Not only will a course increase your confidence, but you’ll understand the safety behind these herbs. This Introductory Herbal Course from The Herbal Academy is incredible for getting started.

Here are a few of my favorite medicinal herbal books to add to your library as well:

Now, you’re ready to get started growing your herbal apothecary. Let’s be honest; this is one of the most exciting parts. Opening your cabinet and seeing all the jars of herbs is a satisfying moment. Taking charge of your health is one of the best things you can do for your family.

Herbalism for Beginners: 11 Must-Have Medicinal Herbs

These herbs are in alphabetical order, not in order of importance. They each have a vital purpose in my herbal apothecary because of the ailments I treat. Your family will have needs different from mine.

Remember, this is a starting place and not meant to be an exhaustive list!

Calendula

Calendula is one of my favorite medicinal flowers, and I grow it in my garden. These bright, yellow, and orange flowers provide the perfect pops of color. This flower is a powerful vulnerary, healing skin wounds and promoting cell repair.

Calendula flower petals are used medicinally. It is one of the few herbs with no toxicity reported; you can use it as often as you want!

Calendula is noted for having antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Use it to keep infections at bay on skin injuries.
Keep calendula creams, salves, and ointments on hand to treat injuries, such as bruises, burns, sores, skin ulcers, skin infections, rashes, and more. If it’s a skin problem, calendula should be one of the first medicinal herbs to grab.
Calendula is gentle enough for babies! Use it for diaper rashes and cradle cap. Try calendula tea for thrush!
Internally, use calendula tea to moderate fevers and stop them from going too high.
Calendula also treats ulcers (mixed with marshmallow root – one of my favorites!), indigestion, or diarrhea. Try mixing with peppermint for a tasty tea if you have heartburn or indigestion.

Cayenne

Cayenne belongs in your medicinal and culinary cabinet. This herb is fantastic for warming the system and increasing blood circulation. It’s an analgesic, meaning it helps to relieve pain topically.

Not all parts of the cayenne plant are used. Only the fruit is edible and medicinal. Cayenne, like other pepper plants, belongs to the nightshade family. So, the leaves, stems, and flowers may be toxic.

Cayenne is fantastic for topical pain relieving, so consider it for arthritis, bursitis, and muscle or joint aches. It’s often an ingredient in OTC pain creams; make a DIY version at home!
Cayenne has a history of being a heart herb, used as first aid for heart attacks. While heart attacks definitely require emergency medicine, some studies indicate cayenne lowers cholesterol and improves overall heart health. Consider adding more cayenne to recipes!
Cayenne improves your overall immune system, so it is useful when combating the common cold and flu.

This herb needs a warning label. While it is safe, it is HOT. You should use caution when handling it. It may not be suited for those with sensitive skin. When creating a salve or infused oil for aches, be sure to try a test patch before applying it everywhere.

Chamomile

Everyone knows a good cup of chamomile tea lends itself to a good night’s sleep. It is one of the gentlest herbs, but don’t let its gentleness fool you! Chamomile is useful more often than when you need to go to sleep.

You primarily use chamomile flowers when creating herbal remedies. However, some remedies may call for chamomile leaves as well.

Chamomile is full of anti-inflammatory properties, so it can be used to treat arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.
You can use chamomile for regular pain, such as general pains, headaches, and more.
If you feel stressed or worried, drinking a cup of chamomile tea promotes sleep and easing of the nervous system.
Chamomile is also wonderful for the digestive system for indigestion, upset stomachs, or heartburn.

You may be allergic to chamomile! Pay attention the first time you use it. Look for itchy eyes, a runny nose, a scratchy throat, and other signs of an allergy. However, it is exceedingly rare for chamomile to lead to a serious allergy.

Echinacea

Echinacea is known as one of the top immune-enhancing medicinal herbs. Use this herb to fight off illnesses and strengthen your immune system. You can grow it easily in your garden; it’s native to many regions of North America!

All parts of the echinacea plant are used. You may use the root, leaves, flowers, and seeds.

Using echinacea helps to raise the body’s resistance to infection by aiding immune function. Some studies suggest it may decrease a cold’s duration by 2-3 days.
Echinacea contains antifungal and antibacterial properties, so it is an effective medicine against fungal or bacterial infections.
Make sure you take echinacea as the earliest signs of an illness. It’s found to be effective against bronchial and respiratory infections, sore throats, and other situations. Try taking it as a tea or tincture when you notice you feel down.

Some people will have allergic reactions to echinacea. Pay attention for common allergy signs, such as itchy eyes, a runny nose, or a scratchy throat. It is a potent medicinal herb, safe for most people, including children and the elderly.

Elder: Flower & Berries

Nearly everyone has heard of elderberry syrup, but you may not realize that elder flowers also are a useful medicinal herb. Farms throughout Europe and North America grow these large bushes along the roadside.

The flower and berries are useful for creating herbal remedies. Harves the elderflowers first, between early and late spring. Then, harvest the berries in late summer or early fall.

Elder flowers are diaphoretic, so they induce sweating. Use the flowers to lower fevers.
Elderberries contain immune-enhancing properties. It’s often used in combination with echinacea for colds and influenza.
The berries have antiviral properties, so they’re commonly used for the flu, herpes, and shingles, along with upper respiratory infections.
Elderberries are edible, so consider making jam, jellies, pies, and other yummy recipes with them!

In most circumstances, elder is safe. You shouldn’t eat raw (uncooked) berries in any large quantity. Raw berries lead to digestive upset or diarrhea.

Garlic

Garlic is a beloved culinary herb; I add several more cloves than called for nearly every recipe out there. It also is a powerhouse medicinal herb used for treating colds, cases of flu, sore throats, and poor digestion.

Including garlic in your food is important too. The more we include medicinal herbs in our daily diet, the healthier we will be. So, toss in a few more cloves and spread some garlic oil over your sourdough bread.

Garlic is known as a “natural antibiotic,” because it helps to boost the body’s immune system. It is a potent internal and external antiseptic, anti-bacterial, and antimicrobial agent for treating a variety of infections.
Use garlic to treat intestinal worms in humans and animals; it is a well-known vermifuge.
Garlic is a common ingredient in fire cider, a beloved herbal vinegar. Fire cider is known for keeping families healthy throughout the cold and flu season.
One of my favorite ways to use garlic is to make a garlic ear oil. It’s ideal for ear infections associated with colds and congestion. Don’t use it for “swimmer’s ear” or any situations when an infection is caused by water entering the ear.

Garlic has a few warnings to consider. Overconsumption may cause stomach distress, especially for small children and infants. Nursing mothers should be cautious with garlic because it may lead their child to experience fussiness. It also may burn sensitive skin when used topically.

Ginger

Ginger is a common culinary herb, but it is just as versatile as garlic when it comes to medicinal uses. You may have used ginger chews when nauseous or during pregnancy. Ginger ale is commonly given when one has a stomach ache. That’s because ginger is wonderful for cramps, nausea, morning sickness, and motion sickness.

The rhizome is the only part of the plant used. Ginger is a root plant; you harvest and consume the root.

Ginger helps to reduce inflammation and repair damaged joints. That’s why it is beloved treatment for arthritis and joint pain.
Women experiencing menstrual cramps and PMS may experience improvement because ginger improves circulation.
Many studies report that ginger is more effective than over-the-counter options for motion sickness, morning sickness, nausea, and seasickness. Some doctors use it to help with nausea during chemotherapy, although you should discuss it with your oncologist before doing so.
Ginger is a warming, decongestant herb, so it can be used to treat colds, influenza, respiratory congestion, and sore throats.

Negative side effects of ginger are rarely documented. It is a popular culinary herb, used in a wide range of dishes, so there is a good chance you’ve already consumed it!

Marsh Mallow

Marshmallow is a perennial plant with pink flowers. You might think of little marshmallows you add to hot chocolate, but the herb is different. Long ago, Romans, Greeks, and other ancient people harvested the roots to eat. Our family uses marshmallow root in cold and cough teas.

The root is still primarily used, but the leaf and flower may be used also. It’s a perennial plant, so consider planting it in your garden and letting it establish and spread.

Marshmallow has rich mucilaginous properties, perfect for soothing inflamed tissues. It helps treat inflamed tissues in the respiratory system, digestive system, and skin.
We tap into its soothing, demulcent properties by adding this to cold and cough tea. It will aid dry coughs, lubricating and moisturizing the lungs.
If you have dry, chapped skin, consider making a poultice of chamomile and marshmallow root. Another option is to add some to a bath to soothe dry, irritated skin, including eczema. It’s safe for babies, so consider making a diaper cream!

Few side effects are known for marshmallow. It’s a benign herb with a long record of safety.

Peppermint

Nearly everyone knows the taste of peppermint. Who doesn’t love delicious peppermint candies? Peppermint is refreshing and delicious; sipping on peppermint tea tastes delicious hot OR cold. I toss peppermint into many herbal teas because it will help mask the flavor of unpleasant herbs.

You most commonly use the leaf and flower parts of the herb. So, if you grow this herb, it will spread like wildfire. Continue to harvest the leaves!

Peppermint is commonly known as a digestive aid, reducing nausea and gas.
You can use peppermint to relax muscles and reduce stomach cramps and spasms due to its antispasmodic properties.
Peppermint is often used in toothpaste, mouthwashes, and chewing gum because it removes odd tastes from your mouth. Nearly everyone loves the flavor!
I love peppermint to reduce headaches, burns, toothaches, and bee stings. It’s great for reducing pain! Try sipping on some peppermint tea when you feel a headache brewing.
Another option is to drink peppermint tea for indigestion. However, for some people, peppermint MAY increase indigestion or acid reflux. Everyone responds differently!

Peppermint is a safe herb, but we know that peppermint essential oil is generally recommended to avoid for small children. I would avoid peppermint herb with small children.

Thyme

Chances are thyme is in your kitchen cabinet since it’s a fragrant herb used in many dishes and spice blends. Our family uses thyme as one of our favorite cold and cough remedies, creating a child-safe cough medicine AND a cold tea blend with thyme.

If you grow thyme at home, the leaf and flower contain medicinal properties. The plant is a fairly hardy perennial, surviving in most climates, so it’ll return once planted each year.

Thyme contains a powerful disinfectant, used both internally and externally. Consider using it in your homemade hand soap! Internally, it fights off infections when drunk in a tea.
Herbalists often use thyme to ward off colds, and if you have a sore throat or cough, thyme cough syrup will reduce inflammation.
Thyme tea is fantastic for treating coughs and any chest congestion.

Thyme is safe and non-toxic with few negative side effects listed. Since it’s often used in spice blends, you’ve probably eaten it dozens of times already.

Turmeric

Turmeric quickly became one of my favorite medicinal herbs. A cousin to ginger, turmeric is popular in many Indian dishes, recognized by its bright yellow color. Turmeric is rich in anti-inflammatory and immune-enhancing properties. I used it on a gum infection, and the swelling decreased dramatically!

Like ginger, you only consume the rhizome of the turmeric plant. It’s a root plant, so you need to harvest the entire plant.

Turmeric is a pungent, dry, warming herb, perfect for chest colds and coughs. It will dry excess mucus in your body.
One of the best reasons to use turmeric is for its anti-inflammatory properties. It’s an effective treatment for arthritis, osteoarthritis, and other inflammatory conditions. Studies show it may react stronger than hydrocortisone without harmful side effects.
Turmeric has many dental uses as well, including reducing gingivitis and periodontitis.
Curcumin, a constituent of turmeric, is an antibacterial agent, useful for treating infections. It may even have stronger antioxidant properties than vitamin E!

There are few, if any, safety factors for turmeric. However, it’s quite a warm, dry herb; you may know that from recipes. If you use it for colds, try mixing it with a moisture-enhancing herb, like marshmallow root. If used regularly for an ailment, increase your water intake.

Herbalism for Beginners: 11 Must-Have Medicinal Herbs