21 DIY Herbal Remedies Anyone Can Make
In an era of synthetic solutions and fast-paced living, there is a profound movement returning to the roots of wellness. Herbalism, the ancient practice of using plants for medicinal purposes, is no longer a fringe hobby; it is a vital skill for anyone looking to take control of their health naturally. Whether you are dealing with a seasonal cold, a digestive hiccup, or restless nights, the earth provides a pharmacy right in our gardens and kitchens.
This comprehensive guide explores 21 DIY herbal remedies that are safe, effective, and easy to prepare at home. We will dive into the science of the plants, the art of the preparation, and the specific “how-to” for every recipe.
1. Elderberry Immunity Syrup
Elderberries (Sambucus nigra) are powerhouses of antioxidants and vitamins that may boost your immune system. They are specifically known for their ability to shorten the duration of cold and flu symptoms by preventing viruses from entering healthy cells.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried elderberries (or 2 cups fresh)
- 4 cups filtered water
- 1 cup raw local honey
- 1 piece of fresh ginger (about 2 inches, sliced)
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 5 whole cloves
Detailed Instructions:
- Boil the Berries: Place the elderberries, water, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves in a large pot. Bring to a boil.
- Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer uncovered for 45 to 60 minutes. You want the liquid to reduce by about half.
- Mash and Strain: Remove from heat. Use a spoon or potato masher to lightly mash the berries. Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a glass bowl. Squeeze the berries to get every drop of juice.
- Cool Down: Let the liquid cool to room temperature. This is crucial because adding honey to boiling liquid destroys its beneficial enzymes.
- Add Honey: Stir in the raw honey until well combined.
- Storage: Pour the syrup into a sterilized glass jar. Store in the refrigerator. It lasts for up to 3 months.
- Dosage: Take 1 tablespoon daily for adults (1 teaspoon for children) as a preventative measure, or every 3 hours if feeling under the weather.
2. Fire Cider: The Vitality Tonic
Popularized by herbalist Rosemary Gladstar, Fire Cider is a pungent, spicy, and sweet vinegar infusion. It acts as a circulatory stimulant and a potent decongestant.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup fresh grated ginger root
- 1/2 cup fresh grated horseradish root
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 10 cloves of garlic, crushed
- 2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and chopped
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne powder
- Raw apple cider vinegar (with “the mother”)
- Raw honey (to taste)
Detailed Instructions:
- Prep the Roots: Place all the vegetables, herbs, and spices into a clean quart-sized glass jar.
- The Vinegar Bath: Pour the apple cider vinegar over the ingredients until the jar is full and all ingredients are submerged.
- Seal and Shake: If using a metal lid, place a piece of parchment paper between the jar and the lid to prevent the vinegar from corroding the metal. Shake well.
- Infuse: Store the jar in a dark, cool place for 4 to 6 weeks. Shake the jar daily.
- Strain: After 6 weeks, strain the mixture through cheesecloth, squeezing hard to extract all the liquid.
- Sweeten: Add honey to the liquid until you reach your desired balance of spicy and sweet.
- Usage: Take 1 shot glass daily to ward off illness or use it as a salad dressing base.
3. Golden Milk Paste (Anti-Inflammatory)
Golden milk is an ancient Ayurvedic remedy for inflammation, joint pain, and digestive health. The key is combining turmeric with black pepper to increase the absorption of curcumin.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup organic turmeric powder
- 1 cup water
- 1.5 teaspoons ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup extra virgin coconut oil
Detailed Instructions:
- The Slurry: In a small saucepan, mix the turmeric and water.
- Cook: Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until it forms a thick paste. This usually takes 7 to 10 minutes.
- Add the Catalyst: Remove from heat and stir in the black pepper and coconut oil. The fats in the oil and the piperine in the pepper are essential for turmeric’s bioavailability.
- Storage: Place the paste in a glass jar and keep it in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- To Use: Stir 1/2 teaspoon of the paste into a cup of warm almond or coconut milk. Add a dash of cinnamon and maple syrup for taste.
4. Chamomile and Lavender Sleep Tincture
Tinctures are concentrated liquid extracts. This blend uses the calming properties of chamomile and the sedative aroma of lavender to prepare the body for deep rest.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup dried chamomile flowers
- 1/4 cup dried lavender buds
- 1.5 cups 80-proof vodka (or vegetable glycerin for a non-alcoholic version)
Detailed Instructions:
- Jar Prep: Place the dried herbs into a clean glass pint jar.
- Extracting: Pour the vodka over the herbs, ensuring they are completely covered. Leave about an inch of headspace at the top.
- The Wait: Seal the jar and store it in a cool, dark cabinet. Let it sit for 4 to 6 weeks, shaking it every few days.
- Strain: Use a cheesecloth to strain the herbs, squeezing tightly.
- Bottle: Transfer the liquid into dark amber dropper bottles.
- Usage: Take 1-2 droppers full in a small glass of water 30 minutes before bedtime.
5. Peppermint and Fennel Digestion Tea
Bloating and indigestion are often caused by spasms in the digestive tract. Peppermint relaxes the stomach muscles, while fennel seeds reduce gas.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons dried peppermint leaves
- 1 tablespoon fennel seeds (slightly crushed)
- 1 teaspoon dried lemon balm (optional, for flavor)
- 2 cups boiling water
Detailed Instructions:
- Crush the Seeds: Use a mortar and pestle or the back of a spoon to lightly crack the fennel seeds. This releases the volatile oils.
- Combine: Place the peppermint, fennel, and lemon balm in a teapot or large glass jar.
- Steep: Pour the boiling water over the herbs. Cover immediately to keep the medicinal oils from escaping with the steam.
- Wait: Let it steep for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Enjoy: Strain and drink slowly after a heavy meal.
6. Calendula “Magic” Skin Salve
Calendula is known as the “mother of the skin.” This salve is perfect for minor cuts, scrapes, rashes, and dry patches.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup calendula-infused oil (Made by soaking dried calendula in olive oil for 4 weeks)
- 1/4 cup beeswax pastilles
- 5 drops lavender essential oil (optional)
Detailed Instructions:
- Melt: Use a double boiler (or a glass bowl over a pot of simmering water) to melt the calendula oil and beeswax together.
- Check Consistency: Dip a spoon into the mixture and let it cool. If it’s too soft, add more beeswax; if too hard, add more oil.
- Add Scent: Remove from heat and stir in the lavender essential oil.
- Pour: Quickly pour the liquid into small metal tins or glass jars.
- Set: Let the salve sit undisturbed until it completely solidifies.
- Apply: Rub onto irritated skin as needed.
7. Garlic and Mullein Ear Oil
This is a classic remedy for ear discomfort or minor infections. Mullein flowers are soothing, while garlic acts as a natural antimicrobial.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons dried mullein flowers
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
Detailed Instructions:
- Infuse: Combine the garlic, mullein, and olive oil in a small heat-proof glass jar.
- Warm: Place the jar in a slow cooker filled with a few inches of water on the lowest setting for 3-4 hours. Do not let the oil get hot enough to “fry” the garlic.
- Strain: Strain through a very fine cloth (multiple layers) to ensure no garlic particles or fine mullein hairs remain.
- Storage: Keep in a dark dropper bottle in the fridge for up to 1 month.
- Usage: Warm the oil slightly (test on your wrist first!). Place 2-3 drops in the affected ear and plug with a cotton ball.
8. Rose Water Facial Toner
Rose water is a gentle astringent that balances the skin’s pH and reduces redness.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh organic rose petals (free of pesticides)
- 2 cups distilled water
- 1 tablespoon witch hazel (optional)
Detailed Instructions:
- Simmer: Add rose petals and water to a pot. Cover and bring to a very low simmer.
- Color Change: Simmer until the petals lose their color and the water takes on the color of the roses (about 20 minutes).
- Strain: Strain the liquid and discard the petals.
- Mix: Add the witch hazel if you have oily skin; omit if you have dry skin.
- Store: Keep in a spray bottle in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for about 2 weeks.
9. Ginger and Lemon Cough Syrup
This syrup is soothing for a sore throat and helps to break up mucus in the chest.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup fresh ginger, sliced
- 2 organic lemons, sliced into rounds
- 1 cup raw honey
- 1/2 cup water
Detailed Instructions:
- Infusion: Combine ginger, lemon slices, and water in a small pot.
- Simmer: Simmer for 15 minutes until the liquid reduces slightly and the lemon peel is soft.
- Mash: Lightly mash the lemons and ginger to release more juice.
- Honey: Allow the mixture to cool to a warm temperature, then stir in the honey.
- Strain: Strain into a jar.
- Usage: Take 1 tablespoon as needed for cough relief.
10. Arnica Muscle Rub
Arnica (Arnica montana) is legendary for its ability to reduce bruising and soothe sore muscles after exercise.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup arnica-infused oil
- 2 tablespoons shea butter
- 2 tablespoons beeswax
- 10 drops peppermint essential oil
Detailed Instructions:
- Double Boiler: Melt the arnica oil, shea butter, and beeswax in a double boiler.
- Cool Slightly: Once melted, remove from heat and let it cool for 2 minutes.
- Essential Oils: Stir in the peppermint oil, which provides a cooling sensation.
- Pour: Pour into a glass jar and let it set.
- Caution: Never apply arnica to broken skin or open wounds.
11. Valerian Root Tincture (Deep Sleep)
Valerian root is one of the most potent herbal sedatives. It is particularly useful for those who have trouble falling asleep due to a “racing mind.”
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup dried valerian root (Warning: it has a very strong, “gym sock” smell!)
- 1.5 cups 100-proof vodka
Detailed Instructions:
- The Jar: Place the root in a glass jar.
- Macerate: Cover with vodka. Ensure the roots are fully submerged.
- Wait: Store in a dark place for 6 weeks. Shake daily.
- Finish: Strain through a coffee filter or cheesecloth.
- Usage: Take 20-30 drops in water before bed. Note: A small percentage of people find valerian stimulating rather than sedating; test with a small dose first.
12. Dandelion Root “Coffee” (Liver Detox)
Dandelion root is a prebiotic and a liver tonic. When roasted, it has a flavor profile remarkably similar to coffee but without the caffeine.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup roasted dandelion root (dried and chopped)
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 cups water
Detailed Instructions:
- Roasting (if starting fresh): If you have fresh roots, wash, chop, and roast them in the oven at 300°F until dark brown and fragrant.
- Decoction: Place the roasted roots, cinnamon, and water in a pot.
- Boil: Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20 minutes. A decoction is necessary for hard roots to extract the nutrients.
- Strain: Strain into a mug. Add cream or honey as you would with coffee.
13. Plantain Leaf “Draw” Salve
Plantain (Plantago major) is a common weed that is incredible at drawing out toxins, splinters, and insect venom.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup plantain-infused oil (made from dried plantain leaves)
- 2 tablespoons bentonite clay
- 1 tablespoon beeswax pastilles
Detailed Instructions:
- Melt: Melt the oil and beeswax in a double boiler.
- The Clay: Once melted, remove from heat and whisk in the bentonite clay. The clay provides the “drawing” power.
- Stir: Stir constantly as it cools to prevent the clay from settling at the bottom.
- Store: Keep in a small tin.
- Usage: Apply a thick layer to a splinter or bee sting and cover with a bandage.
14. Rosemary and Sage Hair Rinse
This herbal rinse stimulates the scalp, darkens greys naturally over time, and adds a beautiful shine to the hair.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons dried rosemary
- 2 tablespoons dried sage
- 3 cups water
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Detailed Instructions:
- Infuse: Boil the water and pour it over the rosemary and sage.
- Steep: Let it sit for at least 30 minutes (or until completely cool).
- Add Vinegar: Strain the herbs and stir in the apple cider vinegar.
- Apply: After shampooing, pour the mixture over your hair. Do not rinse it out. The scent of vinegar disappears once the hair dries.
15. Echinacea Tincture (The Immune Shield)
Echinacea is best used at the very first sign of a tickle in the throat. It stimulates the production of white blood cells.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup dried Echinacea purpurea (root and leaf mix)
- 1.5 cups 80-proof vodka
Detailed Instructions:
- Jar: Place herbs in a jar.
- Submerge: Add vodka.
- Infuse: Let sit for 6 to 8 weeks in a dark spot.
- Strain: Strain and store in amber bottles.
- Usage: 1 dropper full every 2-3 hours at the onset of symptoms for no more than 10 days.
16. Lemon Balm Glycerite (Anxiety Relief)
Glycerites are tinctures made with vegetable glycerin instead of alcohol. They are sweet and perfect for children or those avoiding alcohol. Lemon balm is a gentle nervine that lifts the mood.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh lemon balm leaves (tightly packed)
- Food-grade vegetable glycerin
- Distilled water
Detailed Instructions:
- Mix Base: Create a mixture of 75% glycerin and 25% distilled water.
- Jar: Fill a jar halfway with chopped fresh lemon balm.
- Cover: Pour the glycerin mixture over the leaves until the jar is full.
- Process: Let sit for 4 weeks.
- Strain: Strain and store.
- Usage: 1/2 teaspoon as needed for stress or nervous tension.
17. Thyme and Honey Steam (Congestion)
Thyme is a powerful antiseptic and antispasmodic. Inhaling its vapors can open up the airways and kill airborne bacteria.
Ingredients:
- 1 handful of fresh thyme (or 2 tbsp dried)
- A large bowl of boiling water
- A large towel
Detailed Instructions:
- Prep: Place the thyme in the bowl and pour the boiling water over it.
- Position: Place your face over the bowl (at a safe distance to avoid burns).
- Tent: Drape the towel over your head and the bowl to trap the steam.
- Inhale: Breathe deeply through your nose for 5-10 minutes.
18. Slippery Elm Lozenges
Slippery elm bark contains mucilage, which turns into a gel when mixed with water. It coats and soothes the throat like nothing else.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup slippery elm bark powder
- 2 tablespoons warm water
- 2 tablespoons raw honey
- A pinch of cinnamon
Detailed Instructions:
- Mix: Combine the honey and warm water.
- Dough: Gradually add the slippery elm powder and cinnamon to the liquid until a stiff dough forms.
- Shape: Pinch off small pieces and roll them into balls the size of a marble.
- Dry: Roll the balls in a little extra slippery elm powder to prevent sticking. Let them air dry on a parchment-lined tray for 24-48 hours until hard.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container.
19. St. John’s Wort Oil (Nerve Pain)
While often taken internally for depression, St. John’s Wort is incredible when used topically for nerve pain, sciatica, and mild burns.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh St. John’s Wort flowers (wilted for 24 hours to reduce moisture)
- 1.5 cups olive oil
Detailed Instructions:
- Macerate: Place the flowers in a jar and cover with oil.
- Sun Infusion: Unlike other herbs, St. John’s Wort benefits from sitting in a sunny window. The oil will turn a brilliant ruby red.
- Wait: Infuse for 4 weeks.
- Strain: Strain and store in a cool, dark place.
- Usage: Rub onto areas of nerve pain or localized inflammation.
20. Comfrey “Bone Knit” Compress
Comfrey contains allantoin, a compound that speeds up cell proliferation. It has been used for centuries to heal bruises, sprains, and even minor fractures.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup dried comfrey leaves
- 2 cups water
- A clean cotton cloth
Detailed Instructions:
- Infusion: Make a strong tea by steeping comfrey in boiling water for 20 minutes.
- Soak: Once the liquid is warm (not hot), soak the cotton cloth in the tea.
- Apply: Place the cloth over the bruised or injured area.
- Wrap: Wrap a dry towel or plastic wrap around the cloth to hold it in place for 30 minutes.
- Note: Do not use comfrey on open wounds.
21. Holy Basil (Tulsi) Adaptogen Elixir
Holy Basil is an adaptogen, meaning it helps the body “adapt” to stress and find balance.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons dried Tulsi
- 1 cup hot water
- 1 teaspoon raw honey
- A squeeze of lime
Detailed Instructions:
- Steep: Steep the Tulsi in hot water for 10 minutes.
- Sweeten: Add honey and lime.
- Ritual: Drink this daily during times of high stress to support the adrenal glands and lower cortisol levels.
The Fundamentals of Making Your Own Remedies
To be successful in making these 21 remedies, it is important to understand the four primary methods used:
Infusions vs. Decoctions
- Infusions: Think of this as “steeping.” This is used for delicate parts of the plant like leaves and flowers. You pour hot water over them and let them sit.
- Decoctions: This is used for “hard” parts like roots, bark, and berries. These need to be simmered on the stove for a longer period to break down the tough cellular structures.
The Folk Method for Tinctures
You don’t always need a scale. The “Folk Method” involves filling a jar half-full with dried herbs (or two-thirds full for fresh) and covering them with 80 to 100-proof alcohol. The alcohol acts as a solvent, extracting the medicinal properties while acting as a preservative.
Infused Oils
Infused oils are the base for most salves and balms. The most important rule: Dry your herbs first. If you use fresh, water-heavy herbs, your oil will grow mold. Infuse for 4-6 weeks in a dark spot or use the “quick method” by heating on very low heat in a slow cooker for 4 hours.
Safety and Precautions
While herbal remedies are natural, they are also powerful.
- Consult a Professional: If you are pregnant, nursing, or taking prescription medications, consult with a healthcare provider or a clinical herbalist before starting a new regimen.
- Patch Test: When using a topical salve or oil, always do a patch test on a small area of skin first.
- Quality Matters: Use organic or wildcrafted herbs whenever possible. Pesticides have no place in medicine.
- Dosage: More is not always better. Follow the recommended dosages.
Final Thoughts
The journey into herbalism is one of empowerment. By learning to make these 21 remedies, you are building a bridge between your kitchen and your well-being. These recipes are not just about fixing a symptom; they are about building a relationship with the natural world and understanding the rhythms of your own body. Start with one recipe—perhaps the Elderberry Syrup or the Golden Milk—and watch as your home pharmacy grows, one plant at a time.
