In addition to being a source of food, plants are also important due to their medicinal benefits. Did you know that basil, for example, has positive effects on your health? Read more about nature’s medicinal herbs and see our 6 herbal recommendations.
Plants found in nature have been utilized for millennia as both beauty treatments and for medicinal purposes. Natural herbs have been used to cure pain and various ailments and to enhance both physical and mental well-being. Our ancestors knew that the common plantain leaf, found in the garden, would stop a wound from bleeding and help it heal. Ginger and garlic have been used effectively in the prevention and treatment of the colds and flu. Whilst chamomile and lavender are known as soothing herbs that help us relax. Plants can have a huge impact on health, affecting every function of the body.
The pharmaceutical industry has also utilized plant-based ingredients for medicines. For example, a century ago, much of the codeine, quinine, and morphine used in medicine were based on plant ingredients. Modern natural cosmetics utilizes different plants to improve the condition of the skin and various skin ailments or to strengthen the skin microbiome.
Healing herbs
Many herbs contain several effective ingredients so the same plant can help with many different ailments. The green parts contain organic acids that promote the absorption of minerals and other good fatty acids such as omega-3. Medicinal herbs also contain good antioxidants that protect cells and tissues from oxidation. They help the body defend itself from external stresses. Plants are packed with vitamins, especially A, C, E and K.
In addition to promoting health, herbs are used as a medicine or act as its substitute. Natural herbs have been used to improve blood flow and intestinal function, feverish conditions, urinary tract problems and menopausal symptoms.
Medicinal herbs are used both internally and externally. The leaf of the plant, or the ointment made from it, is applied to the pain site. The healing effect can also be sought by consuming the herbs as they are, by grinding them into tea or by adding them to bread, for example. The medicinal benefit can be extracted from the plant’s root, stem or leaves.
However, when using medicinal plants, other medications currently in use should be taken into account. Please make sure that the plants do not either increase or inhibit the effect of the medicine. Always read the recommendations given by health experts in the use of medicinal herbs and discuss this with your doctor.
6 natural healing herbs
An enormous amount of medicinal herbs can be found in nature. Here are our selection of six effective medicinal herbs. They can all be grown in your own Plantui smart garden.
Coriander
The taste of coriander is something which divides opinion. However, few are familiar with it as a medicinal plant even though research has shown it enhances digestion, helping to remove waste products from the body.
Rosemary
Rosemary is a stimulating herb that increases energy and sharpens memory as well as concentration. Thanks to these effects, it is a good alternative to caffeine. In addition, it also has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce allergy symptoms and nasal congestion.
Thyme
Herbal experts swear by the antibacterial and antiseptic properties of thyme in the prevention of flu and colds. Thyme has also been used to treat acne and to lower high blood pressure. Thyme is rich in vitamins A and C, so it’s the ‘go-to’ herb for improving your body’s defenses.
Sage
Sage is a healing herb by its very name. Also known as Salvia, the name comes from the Latin word “Salvere”, which means “salvation” and “to be well”.
Sage can help activate brain function and memory, and can be useful for people with Alzheimer’s disease, for example. According to studies, sage also improves memory function in healthy people.
Licorice
Licorice is used in both Eastern and Western medicine. It has been used to treat gastrointestinal problems (flatulence, colic, abdominal pain), as well as to treat stomach ulcers, bronchitis and sore throats.
Basil
The health benefits of basil may come as a surprise to many, but basil has calming effects. It relaxes the nervous system and helps you fall asleep. Basil also helps improve digestion and reduce the stress that can cause stomach ailments.
