The Power of Nature | Eurobike Cycling Blog

Nature Is the Best Pharmacy

Quote: Sebastian Kneipp

Many people know that nature is full of beauty and power. But few realize that the small, often delicate plants and herbs you see while cycling are not only pleasing to the eye—they also have numerous health-promoting properties. Researchers believe that over 50,000 years ago, indigenous peoples already harnessed the power of plants and passed their knowledge down through generations. Later, even written recipes were recorded on papyrus by Egyptian physicians.

During the Middle Ages, knowledge about medicinal plants and their effects grew, and monasteries used this knowledge to care for the sick. One of the most famous abbesses was Hildegard von Bingen, who bridged the gap between monastic medicine and folk remedies. Even today, the topic remains highly relevant: many of our most well-known modern medicines were developed based on plant-based remedies.

The Top 5 Powerhouses of Nature

Lavender

Lavender is not only beautiful to look at but has also been valued for its medicinal properties for centuries. Its name dates back to ancient Rome, where it was commonly added to baths. While Provence in France remains its main cultivation region, lavender also grows throughout many Mediterranean areas.

The flowers have a calming effect, which is why they are often used in scented pillows—perfect for your nightstand. Lavender oil is widely used in natural medicine, helping with sleep issues, serving as a relaxing massage oil, or even acting as a natural remedy against mosquito bites. Lavender truly works wonders.

Arnica

Arnica has been recognized as a natural pain reliever for centuries and is also valued in conventional medicine for its healing properties. True arnica grows primarily on calcium-poor forest and mountain meadows across Northern, Eastern, and Central Europe. With over 31 species, it is related to calendula and dandelion. Today, the plant is protected by conservation laws.

Externally, arnica is applied as ointments, oils, or tinctures to reduce swelling or relieve muscle soreness. In homeopathy, it is also an important remedy for skin injuries.

Lady’s Mantle

Lady’s Mantle is one of the most important medicinal plants, especially for women. Its “magical powers” were already recognized in ancient times, when alchemists collected water from its leaf cups to create remedies. Today, it is still widely used.

The plant thrives in moist locations such as forest edges and meadows across Europe. The most well-known species is the common lady’s mantle. The above-ground parts are used, typically as tea or extract. Lady’s Mantle supports women’s health, helps regulate blood pressure, and is believed to have anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties.

Common Nettle

Few people haven’t had a run-in with stinging nettles. Despite its prickly reputation, the nettle has long been valued in natural medicine. In 2022, it was named Medicinal Plant of the Year and can now be found in almost every garden. Nettle can help with urinary tract infections, promote hair growth, and even ease hay fever.

To harvest without irritating your skin, pick in the direction of growth (from bottom to top) and ideally wear gloves. Chopped in a blender, the plant can be added to salads or soups, and the leaves are also popular as tea. It’s a perfect natural remedy to boost energy and fight fatigue.

Plantain

Plantain grows on meadows and pastures and was once primarily used as livestock feed. As early as the Middle Ages, its healing properties were recognized, and it was used to treat ulcers and gout.

Today, plantain is used for respiratory ailments, dry coughs, and insect bites. For a sting, crush a fresh leaf and apply the juice directly to the affected area—it cools and soothes itching.

The Cyclist’s Mini Pharmacy

Arnica Tincture

A time-tested home remedy, arnica tincture helps soothe muscle and joint pain, making it an essential item in your cycling kit. Applied to tired legs or sore muscles, it provides relief and is perfect for long rides.

Lavender Oil

A true all-rounder, lavender oil belongs in every cycling bag. Use it to drift off to sleep in unfamiliar places, unwind after a long stage, or ward off mosquitoes and other insects—always a reliable companion on the road.

Plant Identification App

A plant identification app is an ideal companion for a cycling tour, helping you discover and identify the plants along your route. Important: only pick plants you can confidently identify and never take anything from protected areas.

DIY: Lavender Oil

Lavender oil not only has a calming and relaxing effect on the body but can also work wonders for muscle tension. A massage with a few drops can release tight muscles and feels like a treat after a long cycling tour. Here’s how you can make the oil yourself:

Ingredients:

1 handful of dried lavender flowers

200 ml (¾ cup / 6.8 fl oz) (e.g., almond oil or olive oil)

1 screw-top jar

1 dark glass bottle

Instructions:

Place the lavender flowers in the jar.

Let sit for about 2 weeks in a sunny, warm spot, gently swirling the jar daily.

Strain the oil into a dark bottle.

Use for a soothing post-ride massage.