Herbs have been used effectively against a variety of ailments for centuries. Here are the top ten herbal remedies that are safe to use and readily available in health food stores and some progressive supermarkets.

Goldenseal - known for its antibiotic properties, an effective usage is to prepare a tea. For each cup of water, add 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of powdered goldenseal root. Drink up to 2 cups of this tea daily to benefit from its healing potential.

Chamomile - a mild herb that can fight infection, speed the healing process, calm stomach distress and prevent ulcers. You can purchase prepared tea bags or make your own tea by adding 2 to 3 teaspoons of the herb chamomile per cup of water. Steep the tea for at least 10 minutes but not more than 20 minutes. It is safe to drink up to 3 cups per day.

Garlic - raw garlic is a powerful natural antibiotic. It can help to reduce cholesterol and prevents blood clots from forming. It also is rich in anti-viral properties. Use in all of your cooking. It has a strong, but delicious flavor. You can make a garlic tea by steeping six cloves of garlic in a cup of cool water for six hours.

Slippery Elm Bark - good for upset stomachs, sore throats and cough. It can be found in throat lozenges and cough drops. You can also purchase the herb in bulk and make tea. Per one cup of boiling water, add 1 to 3 teaspoons and simmer for 10 minutes. Three cups per day are an effective herbal cure.

Ginseng - can protect the liver from toxins and other harmful substances. It is also used to increase stamina and build the immune system. In animal testing it was shown to increase sexual activity. Follow package instructions for use of tinctures, capsules, tablets and teas.

Dandelion - good for premenstrual bloating and is anti-inflammatory. For 10 minutes, steep a half of an ounce of dried dandelion leaf for each cup of water. It is safe to drink up to 3 cups of dandelion tea each day.

Feverfew - studies show that feverfew is effectively used to prevent migraine headaches. Take a capsule or pill (85 mg) per day. To prepare a tea, steep 1/2 to 1 teaspoon for each cup of water for 10 minutes. Drink up to 2 cups daily.

Raspberry leaf - used widely for irritability in the uterus (i.e., morning sickness and prevention of miscarriage). To prepare a tea, add 1 to 2 teaspoons per cup of water and steep for 10 minutes. Consume up to 3 cups each day.

Peppermint and Spearmint - indigestion and nausea relief. Prepare a tea by adding 2 teaspoons of dried herb or 1 teaspoon of fresh mint per cup of tea. Steep for 10 minutes. Drink up to 3 cups per day. A revitalizing bath can also be made by placing several handfuls of fresh or dried mint leaves in a cloth bag. Run the bag under the warm water and relax in the tub!

Ginger – by preventing blood clots, ginger may help to reduce the risk of heart attack. It is also an effective treatment against motion sickness. To prepare a tea, add 2 teaspoons of grated ginger per cup of hot water. Steep for 10 minutes and drink up to 3 times per day.

Herbal cures can be safe and effective when used properly. For serious health issues, consult with a qualified health care professional.