Maturing is realizing your hippie auntie rubbing arnica on your bruises and feeding you drops of oil of oregano may not have been so crazy after all. For us, wellness in 2025 looks like: building rituals, embracing ancestral nutrition and seeking out ingredients that work with your body, not against it. Without sounding too woo-woo, we want to stress the importance of natural alternatives to skincare, medicine & so much more. Here are 15 of our favourite traditional, natural remedies that have been tried and tested by yours truly.
1. Frankincense – The Stress Reliever. Frankincense resin, burned as incense in ancient Egypt and the Middle East, wasn’t just for rituals. Its smoke has calming effects, and modern research shows it may reduce anxiety by activating brain pathways linked to emotion regulation. Frankincense is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties, making it a popular choice in skincare products to calm redness and irritation. (You’ll find this hero ingredient in our For The Face tallow moisturizer.)
2. Nettle Tea – For Natural Energy. In European herbalism, stinging nettle was boiled into teas to boost iron levels and fight fatigue. It’s also known to alleviate joint pain and seasonal allergies. Nettle is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, along with calcium and iron, making it a powerhouse herb for overall vitality.
3. Juniper Berries – The Natural Purifier. Native Americans and European herbalists burned juniper berries to cleanse spaces and ward off illness. The berries were also used in tonics for kidney health. Modern herbalists value juniper for its detoxifying properties, particularly in supporting the urinary tract.
4. Perilla Leaves – Respiratory Support. Used in traditional Chinese and Korean medicine, perilla leaves are brewed into teas to treat asthma, colds, and allergies. They’re rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Perilla is also known to support gut health, as its natural compounds can help balance gut bacteria.
5. Neem – The “Village Pharmacy.” In India, the neem tree is revered for its healing properties. From leaves to bark, every part of the tree has been used to treat skin diseases, purify water, and repel insects. Neem paste is still a popular remedy for acne and wounds. Neem oil is also used in hair care to reduce dandruff and promote scalp health.
6. Yarrow – For Healing Wounds. Known as the “soldier’s herb,” yarrow was historically used to stop bleeding and disinfect wounds. Today, it’s also consumed as tea to support digestion and menstrual health. Yarrow is packed with antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory effects that support skin healing.
7. Sea Buckthorn – Skin Superfood. This vibrant orange berry, used in Tibetan and Russian medicine, is packed with omega-7 fatty acids. Traditionally applied to burns, it’s now a sought-after ingredient for rejuvenating skincare. Sea buckthorn oil is also rich in vitamins C and E, making it excellent for reducing fine lines and boosting skin hydration. (Keep an eye out it’s coming soon in our newest tallow face balm - subscribe to our email list to get it first.)
8. Cordyceps – The Vitality Booster. Treasure in Tibetan and Chinese medicine, cordyceps fungus improves lung function, energy levels, and libido. Today, it’s considered a powerful adaptogen. Athletes often use cordyceps supplements to improve endurance and reduce fatigue.
9. Fenugreek – For Postpartum Recovery. Traditional Indian and Middle Eastern cultures use fenugreek seeds to help new mothers recover after childbirth, increase milk production, and restore strength. Fenugreek is also used to regulate blood sugar levels and improve digestion.
10. Chaga Mushroom – The “Mushroom of Immortality.” Used in Siberian and Nordic folk medicine, Chaga mushroom tea is believed to strengthen immunity, reduce oxidative stress, and promote longevity. Chaga is packed with beta-glucans, which support the immune system and combat inflammation.
11. Licorice Root – For Sore Throats. In Ayurveda, Chinese medicine, and Western herbalism, licorice root tea is a go-to remedy for soothing inflamed throats and easing digestive discomfort. It also has antiviral properties and can help reduce stress by regulating cortisol levels.
12. Holy Basil (Tulsi) – Spiritual and Physical Cleansing. Sacred in India, Tulsi tea calms the mind, detoxifies the body, and protects against infections. It’s also burned in rituals to purify spaces. Holy basil is considered an adaptogen, helping the body manage stress more effectively.
13. Black Seed Oil – The Ancient Cure-All. Known as the “cure for everything except death,” black seed oil has been used in Middle Eastern and South Asian medicine for asthma, digestion, and immune support. Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, it’s also used topically to soothe skin irritation.
14. Calendula – For Glowing Skin. This cheerful yellow flower has been used in European herbal medicine to heal wounds and soothe irritated skin. Calendula-infused oils and balms remain a staple in natural skincare. Known for its anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties, calendula helps reduce skin redness and swelling. (You’ll find calendula in our For The Face and Happy Baby balms.)
15. Hibiscus – Nature’s Coolant. In traditional African and Caribbean cultures, hibiscus tea is consumed to cool the body, lower blood pressure, and provide a vitamin C boost. Hibiscus also promotes healthy hair growth and improves skin elasticity, making it a versatile beauty ally.
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Our Favourite Traditional Remedies (That Actually Work)
