Herbal supplements and remedies have been used for ages to treat all sorts of conditions, but right now they’re trendier than ever! Here are our top 5 herbal supplements that you need to know about:

Turmeric

This bright yellow spice is one of hottest herbal supplements around right now, and it’s not hard to see why! Turmeric is beloved for it’s powerful anti-inflammatory properties, and has long been used in traditional medicine to treat a wide range of illnesses. Studies have shown that turmeric is great for relieving issues like chronic inflammation, chronic pain, and rheumatoid arthritis. Some new studies even suggest that it can be beneficial in treating depression and staving off diabetes, slowing the aging process, and even inhibiting cancer cell growth.

To add this anti-inflammatory root to your diet, try adding ground turmeric to foods (it’s great in a curry), blending a few pinches into a green smoothie, or taking a turmeric supplement.

Fenugreek

Like Turmeric, Fenugreek is commonly used as a cooking spice, but has also been traditionally used for a range of health applications. Fenugreek is used during PMS and menopause to help lessen the effects of mood swings and hot flashes and relieve menstrual cramps. New research also suggests that it might help to lower levels of blood glucose and cholesterol, and may even be helpful in the treatment of diabetes. Fenugreek is also widely used by new moms to help to increase milk production.

Echinacea

Echinacea is a North American flower that’s been widely used for years to help boost the immune system and shorten (and sometimes even stave off) colds and upper respiratory tract infections. It’s also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, and regular use of echinacea (like in a daily tea) may help with chronic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.

Spirulina

If you’ve been spending time on Instagram lately, you’ve probably seen at least one smoothie or smoothie bowl made using this blue-green algae-based powder. Spirulina is becoming super popular in health and wellness circles because it’s packed with nutrients like protein, Vitamin B1, B2, and B3, and Iron. It’s also loaded with antioxidants, which help to protect the body’s cells against oxidative damage.

If you want to try it for yourself, try using a supplement, or using spirulina powder in a smoothie or in this Spirulina Globes recipe.

Milk Thistle

Milk Thistle is a powerful antioxidant that helps to boost the immune system and to fight against oxidative damage in the body, but it’s most widely used as a natural detox and remedy for liver diseases. New research also suggests that milk thistle may help to regulate fat digestion, stabilize blood sugar, and balance hormone levels.