When we think about expanding pathways to healing by exploring holistic and cultural knowledge, I want to share with you one of my grandmother’s indigenous healing practice using a natural herb that has medicinal properties for the mind and body.

Hierbabuena (good herb) is a very powerful herbal plant that is beneficial in alleviating pain in the body along with stress. Also known as Menta spicata (Spearmint), hierbabuena is a minty and sweet plant that was frequently grown in my abuela’s (grandmother) garden. I remember as a child watching her pick a couple of fresh leaves from her garden and steep them in some boiling water. My abuela often gave this tea to children and adults whenever we were experiencing stomach problems, muscle pains, or appeared emotionally distressed. 

Hierbabuena can be beneficial if you are experiencing any of the following:

• Stomach issues (indigestion, stomach cramps, gas, bloating, diarrhea)
• Muscle pains and tension
• Sore throat
• Toothaches
• Headaches, migraines
• Nausea
• Arthritis
• Stress

How to use:

1. Place about 2 cups of water in a small pot and bring the water to a boil
2. Wash five leafs of fresh spearmint and allow to dry as you wait for the water to boil (if you don’t have fresh spearmint, I would recommend this tea you can purchase here)
3. Once the water is boiling, stir in about 5 fresh leaves of spearmint herbal plant in the water and turn off the stove
4. Cover the small pot with a lid and allow the leaves to steep in the water for about 5 to 10 minutes (or you can allow it to rest for longer to drink later in the day)
5. Using a strainer to separate the leaves from the water, serve yourself some tea into your mug
6. You can drink the tea cold or hot in the morning or in the night right before bed
7. *Optional: you can add a bit of honey, lemon, or natural sweetener to your tea