Assistant Director Shari Tumandao is the HTC’s resident expert on herbal remedies and holistic health. Each week, she joins Tea Time to introduce students to herbs commonly found in teas, their natural properties, and how they may benefit your health and wellbeing. You can find recaps of her presentations here on our website.
Disclaimer: The following information comes from CommonWealth Center for Holistic Herbalism located in Brookline, MA. If you take medication, please consult your doctor before working with the following herbs. Consume at your own discretion.
Chamomile
Native to Europe and West Asia
Effects and benefits:
- Soothes GI tract and muscle tensions
- May benefit those experiencing IBS, menstrual cramps, and muscle tension brought on by anxiety
- Eases anxiety and agitation
- Relaxes
- May benefit those seeking help falling asleep
- Soothes inflammatory skin conditions (via topical application)
- May benefit those experiencing eczema, psoriasis, and acne
Additional resources:
For more information about ways to use chamomile, check out this how-to: “5 chamomile tea-based DIY beauty recipes to try out this weekend”
Vanilla
Comes from the vanilla orchard, a plant native to Mexico
Effects and benefits:
- Mood elevating
- May help mitigate negative emotional states like anxiety, fear, and depression
- Promotes wakefulness
- May bolster muscular exertions
- Minimizes feelings of dissociation
- May aid those seeking help remaining in the present moment
Uses:
- Mix 1 tsp of vanilla extract or ground vanilla bean to craft coffee drinks, smoothies
- Add 1/2 – 1 tsp ground vanilla to sugar for various uses (e.g., oatmeal, face scrubs)