7 Must-Try Herbal Infusions for Women To Revitalize Your Health
If you’re looking for a natural way to boost your wellness, you might want to explore the world of herbal infusions for health.
Unlike traditional herbal teas, herbal infusions involve a longer steeping time, which allows for a deeper extraction of the herbs’ beneficial properties.
This simple yet powerful practice can be a game-changer, especially for women over 50 seeking to enhance their overall well-being.
In this blog, we’ll dive into seven fantastic herbs that make wonderful infusions, each offering unique benefits to support your health and vitality.
Disclaimer: This blog is meant to share information and isn’t a substitute for medical advice. Please chat with your healthcare provider before trying any new herbal remedies, especially if you have existing health conditions or take medications. Everyone’s needs are different, and it’s always best to make sure something is right for you.
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What is An Herbal Infusion?
I discovered a fascinating YouTube video by Susun Weed, an esteemed herbalist and author.
Susun began her journey into herbal medicine in 1965 while living in Manhattan. She is renowned for her writing and teaching on the “Wise Woman Way” of herbalism, a unique approach that blends traditional knowledge with practical applications.
Herbal tea and herbal infusions differ mainly in their preparation and extraction methods. Herbal tea is made by steeping herbs in hot water for a short period, typically 5 to 10 minutes, extracting some of the herbs’ essential oils and soluble compounds.
In contrast, herbal infusions involve steeping herbs for a longer period, usually 30 minutes to several hours, allowing for a more thorough extraction of nutrients and beneficial compounds.
Health Benefits of Herbal Infusions
While herbal teas offer a quick and soothing drink, herbal infusions provide a more potent therapeutic effect and are often used for their deeper health benefits.
According to Susun Weed, nourishing herbal infusions are crucial for thriving in your later years and easing menopause.
Herbal infusions offer essential proteins, minerals, phytoestrogens, and beneficial fats that menopausal women need. Many common menopausal issues can be linked to deficiencies in these vital nutrients.
How To Make Herbal Infusions
Typically, 30 grams of dried herb (about 240 milliliters by volume) is placed in a one-liter jar, which is then filled with boiling water.
The jar is sealed tightly and left to steep for 4 to 10 hours. After straining, you can drink a cup or more, while the remainder should be refrigerated to prevent spoilage.
Drinking 480 to 960 milliliters daily is common.
Dried herbs are preferred for infusions because the drying process makes their minerals and other phytochemicals more accessible.
Herbs To Use
1. Stinging Nettle
Stinging nettle infusion is known for its ability to strengthen the adrenals, helping to relieve anxiety and boost focused energy.
When adrenals are depleted, they can lead to sudden feelings of anxiety, fear, and nervousness.
Nettle infusion, often described as the energy of the Earth, supports adrenal and kidney health, keeps blood vessels flexible, and enhances hair and skin tone. It also nourishes the immune system and can help moderate or eliminate many allergies.
2. Oatstraw
Oatstraw (Avena sativa) is recognized as a herb of longevity in the Ayurvedic tradition of India.
It helps restore balance to the nervous system, improve emotional resilience, and enhance sexual vitality.
Both oats and oatstraw are excellent for supporting heart health and managing cholesterol levels. When prepared as an infusion—rather than as tea, tincture, or capsules—oat straw provides a rich supply of protein, high levels of essential minerals, and an abundance of B vitamins, though it lacks vitamin B12.
A single cup of oatstraw infusion delivers over 300 milligrams of calcium along with a host of other minerals.
Its steroidal saponins aid in nourishing the pancreas and liver, improving digestion and mood stability.
Oatstraw is particularly renowned for its ability to boost libido and create a soothing, relaxed mood.
3. Red Clover
Red clover is packed with essential nutrients such as calcium, chromium, magnesium, niacin, phosphorus, potassium, thiamine, and vitamin C.
Researchers believe that isoflavones, such as those present in red clover, could help alleviate menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats due to their estrogen-like effects.
As estrogen levels decrease during menopause, the risk of developing osteoporosis, or significant bone loss, increases.
Some studies suggest that a specialized extract of red clover isoflavones might help slow bone loss and potentially increase bone mineral density in pre- and perimenopausal women. However, these findings are still preliminary, and further research is needed to confirm their effectiveness.
Although generally safe, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider if you’re on blood-thinning medications or have hormone-sensitive conditions before incorporating red clover into your routine.
4. Black Cohosh
Black cohosh is a well-regarded herb traditionally used to alleviate menopausal symptoms and has been a key element in herbal medicine for centuries.
Particularly beneficial for women over 50, it helps balance hormones and can offer relief from hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings.
Research involving 120 women experiencing menopausal symptoms found that black cohosh was more effective at reducing hot flashes and night sweats compared to the antidepressant fluoxetine (Prozac).
A review from 2010 indicated that black cohosh led to a 26% decrease in hot flashes and night sweats, also known as vasomotor symptoms. Additionally, recent studies have associated black cohosh with improved sleep quality in menopausal women.
Many experts suggest that black cohosh could be a viable and safe alternative for women who prefer not to use hormonal replacement therapy (HRT) for managing menopause.
Although black cohosh is generally considered safe, it’s wise to consult with a healthcare provider before starting, especially if you have liver issues or are on other medications.
5. Lemon Balm
Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), a member of the mint family, is known for its calming effects and has been used since the Middle Ages to alleviate stress, anxiety, and digestive discomfort, as well as to promote sleep and improve appetite.
Studies suggest that lemon balm, particularly when combined with other calming herbs like valerian, hops, and chamomile, can help reduce anxiety and support sleep.
However, research on lemon balm alone is limited, with most studies focusing on its effects in combination with other herbs.
In a double-blind, placebo-controlled study involving 18 healthy volunteers, a single 600 mg dose of standardized lemon balm extract was shown to enhance mood and significantly increase calmness and alertness.
6. Hibiscus
Hibiscus, a vibrant flowering plant with a rich history of use in various cultures, offers several benefits.
Known for its potential to support heart health and lower blood pressure, hibiscus is also a powerful source of antioxidants.
Its antioxidant properties help combat oxidative stress, which is important for overall wellness.
It’s important to consider its effects on blood pressure and possible interactions with medications, so consulting a healthcare provider before incorporating hibiscus into your routine is advisable.
7. Ginkgo
Ginkgo, derived from the ancient ginkgo biloba tree, has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, particularly in China, for its various health benefits.
For women over 50, ginkgo is often valued for its potential to enhance cognitive function, support memory, and improve circulation.
It is believed to help increase blood flow to the brain and other parts of the body, which may aid in managing symptoms related to aging, such as reduced mental clarity or cold extremities.
Ginkgo is also rich in antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
it’s important to note that ginkgo can interact with blood-thinning medications and may not be suitable for everyone, so it’s best to consult a healthcare provider before use.
Conclusion
Adding herbal infusions to your daily ritual can be a delightful way to boost your health and well-being. Whether it’s black cohosh, red clover, hibiscus, or stinging nettle, each herb brings its special magic, offering a touch of nature’s goodness to support you along the way.
Feel free to mix, match, and play with these herbs to discover what suits your vibe and taste.
And don’t forget—while these infusions are a lovely addition to your routine, a quick chat with your healthcare provider is always a wise move to make sure they’re the right fit for you.
Here’s to sipping your way to vibrant health and joy—one soothing cup at a time!
Got a favorite infusion or curious about something new? Drop a note in the comments—I’d love to hear from you!
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