What Are 10 Medicinal Plants? Its Uses And Benefits
Do you like to take care of yourself and take advantage of the resources that nature offers you? If so, you will surely be interested in this article. In it, we are going to talk about the most complete and effective medicinal plants.
You will know how to use them and how they can help you. Many of them have various uses, so having them at home can help you in different situations.
Importance of medicinal plants
Surely you have ever heard someone criticizing the use of medicinal plants. That person may not know that many of the traditional drugs we take are based on them.
For example, the aspirin in popular aspirin comes from the bark of the white willow. There are many similar examples that only show us the way to the natural.
Traditional medicines vs medicinal plants
In many cases, it does not make sense to face these two options, since each one has its place and utility. Ideally, evaluate the options after visiting the doctor, if necessary. And, above all, follow their instructions if they are clear after their diagnosis.
However, if it is something simple, such as temporary pain or inflammation, you can choose what compensates you the most. This means that sometimes traditional medicine can be more powerful than a medicinal herb.
However, the difference in effectiveness is not so great as to tolerate its side effects. In that case, the decision would be clear.
You should not think that a medicinal herb has no side effects or interactions. It is important that you inform yourself well before taking it. In general, they do not have or are few and mild. However, there are cases in which there are unwanted effects and you have to know it before taking them.
Having said that, we will tell you about the most important ones to keep in mind.
1. Chamomile
Does it sound like an infusion that is usually taken when you are sick? Indeed, it is one of the most consumed in the world. It is widely used for digestive disorders and conditions in the respiratory system.
It is also used to clean the eyes when you have conjunctivitis. Due to its antibacterial, sedative, allergy, and anti-inflammatory properties, it is a good purchase for your pantry.
2. Lavender
This plant, in addition to being useful for physical conditions, is useful for mental health. Relieves headache, and insomnia and reduces stress and anxiety.
It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, the latter being very useful in mosquito bites. Lowers blood pressure and heart rate. This plant takes care of you like a few others.
3. Thyme
You can consume this well-known plant in medicinal infusion or externally in a poultice. Internally it offers you antiseptic, relaxing, and antirheumatic properties. It also has digestive properties and relieves diseases of the respiratory system.
Externally, it is anti-sweat, muscle relaxant, and healing.
4. Aloe vera
Highly known, it is appreciated for the properties of its gel. To have the maximum of these, the plant must be between three and five years old. Also, if you leave it for two or three days without water, it will have the most concentrated gel.
Its properties are regenerative, bactericidal, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic. It is usually applied to the skin, wounds, and burns.
5. Ginger
Added to some recipes, it is a very powerful ingredient to improve your health. As you probably know, it is a root. From it, a high content of zinc and magnesium is obtained, which improves circulation.
Another benefit is that it reduces the accumulation of bad cholesterol in the liver. It also strengthens the immune system, so it can help you in preventing colds, for example.
6. Nettle
It is not one of the kindest medicinal plants with your skin, we know it. However, it is worth taking it with gloves, in safe areas free of contamination. It is used to stop bleeding, as it is a vasoconstrictor.
It improves the digestive system and, due to its mucilage content, acts as a laxative. Furthermore, its chlorophyll content stimulates the formation of red blood cells. It is a great natural remedy. You really don’t deserve to have a bad name just for being stinging.
7. Eucalyptus
It has a refreshing odor and is used in various ways. Its fresh leaves are used to make essential oil and its dry leaves to drink as an infusion. It is very useful to calm cold and flu symptoms.
Clears the airways and has antiseptic and disinfecting properties. Therefore, it is used both for respiratory conditions and to disinfect wounds in the mouth.
8. Mint
Not only does it bring a delicious flavor, but this plant also has a lot to offer. Calm infections, rashes, burns, and wounds on the skin. It helps them to heal and not become infected.
It decreases the congestion of the respiratory system, so it will help you with colds and coughs. It is also a good ally against flatulence and bloating. If you make any food too copious, it will be good to take a little mint infused.
Another lesser-known use of mint is that of tranquilizer. Reduces anxiety and stress, promoting rest.
9. Sage (Salvia)
It has a large number of properties, so do not be surprised to see it in infusions for different conditions. These properties are: relaxing, diuretic, bactericidal, antiseptic, healing, and anti-inflammatory. It helps regulate blood sugar levels and stimulates the nervous system in cases of exhaustion.
10. White hawthorn (Nagaphani)
This plant cannot be missing if you want to take care of your heart. It improves the dilation of the blood vessels, the reason why it stimulates the contraction of the heart, and arterial circulation.
Its antioxidant properties protect blood vessels. In addition, it alleviates the symptoms of high blood pressure. We were telling you the truth by stating that it is an excellent plant for the heart.
Fortunately, there are countless medicinal plants that can serve us for a multitude of uses. These are just a sample of the best-known for their properties.
We encourage you to find out about the ones that interest you the most and look for the ones that do not appear in this list. We hope it has helped you to choose the plants that you will have in your home. Thus, you will always have them ready to use at hand.
