Herbs lend themselves to promoting health, soothing the nerves and healing common issues and ailments. During the holiday season, increasing self-care can be beneficial, and herbs provide the perfect elements for nourishment, relaxation and fun.

There are many ways to incorporate herbs into daily life. Here is a list of herbal preparations and corresponding herbs that can be used accordingly. These suggestions are intended to inspire the use of herbs in everyday routines.

 Herbal Tea

To make a tea, bring water to a boil and pour it over dry herbs, either loose or in a tea bag. The ratio for tea is 1 teaspoon of herb to every cup of water. For groups, using a beautiful teapot to serve the tea enhances the experience of drinking with friends and family. 

Herbs that offer relaxation and help calm the nervous system include chamomile (Matricaria spp.), lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), milky oat tops or oat straw (Avena sativa) and holy basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum). 

The holiday season often leads to indulgence in foods that may cause digestive discomfort. Herbs that can soothe the stomach and promote digestive health include peppermint (Mentha x piperita), spearmint (Mentha spicata), fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) and ginger (Zingiber officinale). 

Other herbs offer similar benefits, but those listed are particularly suitable for self-care and sharing during the holidays, as they are pleasant tasting. 

Herbs for the Bath

Adding herbs to a bath is a wonderful way to promote self-care. Taking time for a bath or foot bath is a lovely way to unwind. 

Soaking in a warm, fragrant herbal bath is a simple pleasure that provides a sanctuary for reflection and relaxation. Bath teas have been used for thousands of years and can boost mood, calm the mind, soothe sore muscles, fight colds, improve circulation, open pores, soften skin and promote more restful sleep. 

For those seeking herbal benefits without a full bath, herbs can be used in the following ways:

• Place herbs in a muslin bag as a warm or cool compress and apply to temples, neck or pulse points.
• Use the infusion to make a soothing foot bath, which can be an enjoyable ritual to share with others.
• Use the herbal bag in the shower as an “herbal washcloth”. 

To gain the most benefit, prepare an herbal infusion and add the strained liquid to a bath or a basin for a foot soak. Foot baths can be a fun, relaxing activity to do with friends and family. 

To prepare an infusion for a group, boil a ½ gallon of water or more, add herbs to the pot and let them steep for at least 30 minutes. Strain and reheat before use. This mixture can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until needed. The herbs from the infusion can also be placed in a muslin bag for topical application. 

Herbs that work well in baths include lavender (Lavandula spp.), rose (Rosa spp.), chamomile (Matricaria spp.), oat straw (Avena sativa), mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris), passionflower (Passiflora spp.) and hops (Humulus lupulus). 

Beauty and Whole Herb Aromatherapy

Placing herbs in bowls or other containers around the home adds a touch of self-care to the environment. Simmering herbs in a pan of water on the stovetop can fill the space with their calming and soothing scents. 

Using whole herbs not only brings the beauty of plants into the home but also provides a gentle aroma that is calming and soothing. To prepare, cut herbs into small pieces and place them in a bowl or simmering pot of water. A kettle on a wood stove works well, but any stovetop will suffice. 

Herbs that can be enjoyed this way include calendula (Calendula officinalis), rose (Rosa spp.), lavender (Lavandula spp.), lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus), bee balm (Monarda spp.), sage (Salvia officinalis), cloves (Syzygium aromaticum) and cinnamon (Cinnamomum spp.). Experiment with any herb or combination that appeals both visually and aromatically. 

These are just a few suggestions to inspire integration of herbs into everyday life. Plants offer the perfect portal for self-care and well-being, especially during the holiday season. Learning more about herbs can bring much joy and promote a sense of peace. 

Linda Conroy dedicates her life to connecting with the green world, which she finds continually amazing. She is a practicing herbalist who offers herbal education, workshops, apprenticeships, consultations and an online herb store. Conroy holds master’s degrees in social service and law and social policy. She is a community organizer and the founder of Moonwise Herbs, the Midwest Women’s Herbal Conference and Mycelium Mysteries Women’s Mushroom Conference. For more information or to register, visit MidwestWomensHerbal.com and MoonWiseHerbs.com