Modern medicine can help manage life-altering diseases, but the importance of herbal and natural remedies can’t be ignored.
Here is a short guide on natural and herbal remedies and how they can be used to bolster senior health:
Benefits of Using Natural & Herbal Remedies
Prescription drugs come with a range of potential side effects. This can be particularly dangerous for older adults, whose immune systems can already be compromised. In comparison, herbal remedies come with minimal side effects. They integrate with your body’s natural processes and can help you manage senior maladies.
With herbal remedies, you can avail long-term health benefits rather than temporary symptom management. They are widely accessible and affordable, unlike costly prescription medicines. No need to go through insurance channels to meet basic health needs. 
Many retirement living facilities, such as Verve Senior Living, have adopted a holistic approach to senior health. They incorporate natural and herbal remedies into the residents’ daily routines to support their bodies’ innate healing abilities.
Common Herbs that Can Improve Senior Health
Here are some common herbs that can offer health benefits for senior adults:
Aloe vera
Aloe vera is a medicinal plant with antioxidant and antibacterial properties. This succulent plant has cooling and moisturizing qualities, which can soothe sunburned skin. It can also relieve itching and dryness and reduce signs of aging.
Applying topical creams to compromised skin can lead to burning, flaking, and even swelling. Aloe vera gel increases collagen production, which can quickly heal cuts, scraps, and minor wounds.
Chamomile
Chamomile is a naturally occurring herb that grows around the world. It is known for having anti-inflammatory and mild astringent properties. The best way to intake chamomile is by drinking the plant as a tea. The benefits of chamomile tea for seniors include:
- Anxiety and stress relief.
- Soothing of the digestive tract.
- Reducing stomach discomfort, ingestion, and gas.
- Improved sleep quality.
Chamomile can be used to manage painful conditions such as arthritis. Its anti-inflammatory properties soothe joint stiffness and help with overall health.
Ginger
Ginger is a commonly used plant in Southeast Asia and offers numerous health benefits, especially for older adults. It can be consumed fresh, dried, as a tea, or as a supplement. Ginger can aid in digestion, reduce nausea, and help manage the symptoms of flu and cold.
Other health benefits of ginger include:
- Research suggests that ginger has anti-diabetic properties and can reduce blood sugar levels.
- It can reduce the risk of heart disease.
- Consuming ginger and artichoke preparation before a meal can manage symptoms of chronic indigestion, such as abdominal pain, bloating, belching, and nausea.
- Some evidence suggests that the 6-shogaol and 6-gingerol compounds found in ginger can prevent degenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease.
Medication for indigestion and nausea often leads to drowsiness for older adults. Use natural remedies to minimize side effects and embrace holistic living.
Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo biloba, commonly known as “ginkgo,” is rich in antioxidants. Mostly taken in the form of supplements, ginkgo can improve cognitive function and delay the onset of degenerative diseases. Other benefits include:
- Improved memory.
- Reduced symptoms of dementia.
- Prevention of age-related eye diseases, such as glaucoma.
- Improved blood flow throughout the body.
- Boost oxygen and nutrient delivery to the brain.
Ginkgo has become an essential component in the daily lives of seniors.
