Herbal supplements have been used for thousands of years, by cultures across the globe, to support a host of essential bodyfunctions. Healing herbs are available from a great variety of plants, and the most commonly used herbal supplements may foster specific areas of wellness, including liver function, sleep, and emotional well-being.

Herbs have increased in popularity over the years as more and more individuals turn to natural health products. The Vitamin Shoppe has a large selection of popular herbal remedies from the most trusted brands in natural living, all carefully selected to accommodate your unique health and wellness goals.

What are healing herbs and supplements?

Herbal supplements are typically sourced from a plant's berries, leaves, bark, flowers, or seeds. They can exist in raw form or may be gently processed into powder or extract. Popular herbs taken as supplements are sometimes also used as food ingredients or seasoning, while others are often exclusively used as an herbal remedy.

What are some of the best herbs to take daily?

Whether you should take herbs daily, and which ones, will largely depend on your health concerns or goals. There are a variety of healing herbs to consider, and common herbal supplements come in different forms such as capsules, liquids, and tablets to suit your preferences. Here's a breakdown of some of the most commonly used herbal supplements and each one's potential benefits:

• Turmeric

  With an incredibly long history of use, turmeric is popular both as a supplement and a flavor additive to food. The herb may help to promote emotional well-being and gastrointestinal function. Turmeric has potent antioxidant properties.

• Melatonin

  A powerful antioxidant, melatonin is typically used to encourage eye health and digestive system function, and melatonin may help to promote healthy sleep patterns. Melatonin is naturally produced by the pineal gland, but high stress levels and poor diet may inhibit the body's ability to produce its normal supply of melatonin.

• Milk thistle

  Used as a traditional herbal remedy for over 2,000 years, milk thistle may help to support healthy immune, liver, and digestive functions. The herb is derived from a thorny plant featuring vibrant purple flower heads that originates from the Mediterranean region.

• Saw palmetto

  Saw palmetto is derived from a spiny palm plant indigenous to the southeastern United States. The supplement version of saw palmetto is a popular herb taken to support prostate health and urinary function in men.

• Ashwagandha

  Also known as “Indian ginseng”,ashwagandha is a traditional herb that is used to reduce stress and boost energy. This ancient herb has been used for thousands of years and is native to North Africa and India.