Throughout the history of medicine, plants have always been used in different ways to treat various ailments. Many of the medicines manufactured today use extracts from all kinds of plants around the world.
These days, you may notice natural supplements being sold in the aisles of drugstores. If you look at the label, the name of the botanical supplement in your garden might look familiar. Here are some of the most common and popular medicines derived from the plant and their uses.
Echinacea
Also called corn flour, these are used to prevent colds, infections, and heal wounds. It has been used in teas and juices for centuries. It is now available as a supplement as well. Cold-related tests are underway, but so far inconclusive. Echinacea is also recommended to strengthen the immune system.
Hypericum perforatum
St. John’s wort is primarily known as a natural way to relieve symptoms of depression. It is also used to treat anxiety, mood swings, and feelings of withdrawal. It is also known to have anti-inflammatory and soothing effects on the skin. This plant can be found in tablet form and in ointment form.
lavender
The garden is known for its strong scent, which can also have a calming effect on the nerves. Lavender oil is often used in diffusers. We also offer lavender tea. In addition to its calming effects, it is known to reduce headaches and aid sleep. Lavender also helps improve appearance by reducing acne and supporting healthy skin and hair.
Marigold
These plants can also be used to get healthier skin or treat skin diseases. It has strong antibacterial properties. Marigolds also help treat ear pain and infections. You can also strengthen your eyes.
garlic
It doesn’t just keep vampires away. This plant is great for lowering cholesterol and lowering blood pressure. Both of these are great for fighting heart disease. It also has a digestive effect. Then you can benefit from using it as an ingredient in other dishes. It is most potent when taken raw.
Dandelion
I have always stated that the simple definition of a weed is an undesirable plant. Dandelion is a very beneficial plant. Rich in vitamin K, vitamin C, iron and calcium. These vitamins are effective in detoxifying the liver and improving liver health. It is also good for bone health. It also helps treat urinary tract infections.
ginkgo
This tree is known as a living fossil because it can live up to 3,000 years. Extracts from the leaves are used to improve brain health. It has been tested to help people with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Important note
I am not writing about these plants to personally endorse their use for these various problems. My goal is to make people aware of the potential medical benefits of these plants. If you should consider using any of these, talk to your doctor first. Any kind of medicine can always interact with treatments you are already using.
Many of these plants are available at drugstores. I was curious about the dandelion, so I looked it up. Extracts from the root are available in tablets. If you are interested in how tea is made or other uses of tea, find out if it is being used properly.
