A selection of plants that have been used in natural remedies for generations.
Since ancient times, when medical knowledge about how our body works was very limited compared to today, different peoples used different remedies to alleviate the discomfort, pain, or symptoms of some diseases. A large part of them was based on the use of the properties of medicinal plants, the knowledge of which allowed in many cases to alleviate a large number of diseases.
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Different plants considered medicinal have been used ever since, even today. However, it is necessary to take into account what effects they have on the body and how to use them, as well as the fact that their healing potential is limited. Throughout this article, we are going to show you some of the medicinal plants that exist and some of their properties.
What is a medicinal plant?
We give the name of the medicinal plant to all those vegetables that have positive properties that can be used either directly or macerated or infused in order to contribute to recovery or improvement of the health status of a subject with some type of disease.
The use of these substances has been known since ancient times, with more than half a thousand medicinal plants being named in the Ebers papyrus (Egypt, around 1550 BC). And with the passage of time and the observation of new species and varieties, we can actually find many more.
The knowledge regarding what they were used for and how to use them has been passed down from generation to generation and has been modernized little by little until today. In fact, although the use of medicinal plants seems a thing of the past, the truth is that according to the WHO the percentage of the population that uses some type of medicinal herb is quite high. In many cases, we do not even realize it, such as when we take chamomile when our belly hurts or we take a linden tree to relax.
Although as a general rule the use of these plants can be beneficial, the truth is that it must be borne in mind that they have their limitations: the concentration of active ingredients is often very low and their effects are more limited than other alternatives. Likewise, caution should be exercised with possible interactions when consumed with drugs (for example, consult the doctor if we use hypericum and antidepressants).
The use of medicinal plants is also not specially regulated, so that misuse can occur and possible interactions with medications and other contraindications are not taken into account. And finally, and this is something that we have discussed previously, the use of medicinal plants does not have a purely curative objective: it should not replace consulting a doctor or taking medication.
50 medicinal plants
As we have said, there is a very wide variety of medicinal plants that have interesting properties and can help us alleviate or prevent various problems.
Below and by way of example, we show you about twenty of the best known. It should be noted that many of them may have contraindications, being advisable to consult a professional before taking them.
1. chamomile
Chamomile is one of the medicinal plants best known for the properties of its flower. Its effects are especially relevant in the treatment of gastrointestinal complaints.
In addition to this, it has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and relaxing effects. It is used in gastrointestinal and muscular pain, cramps and headaches, eczema, inflammation of the gums, wounds, and sinusitis. It also lowers cholesterol and appears to have anti-cancer properties.
2. Aloe Vera
Another of the best known medicinal plants is Aloe Vera. It is a well-known plant with anti-inflammatory capacity and is used in various personal hygiene products due to its promoting action for skin regeneration. It contributes to improving stains, burns, and wounds.
Also in some foods: ingested, improves intestinal function, and strengthens the immune system.
3. Garlic
One of the plants that we use the most in the kitchen is also one of the best known medicinal plants. Garlic is a powerful immune system strengthener and has effects that promote efficient blood circulation (it is anticoagulant), in addition to being antibacterial and antibiotic and has antioxidant properties.
Common problems such as hypertension or the presence of infections are some of the circumstances in which its ingested use can be beneficial. Being an antioxidant it also reduces the rate of cellular aging.
4. Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus is another of the best known medicinal plants, especially with regard to its action against respiratory diseases. Asthma, bronchitis or flu are some of the typical problems in which it is used. It also has antimicrobial capabilities and facilitates the secretion of fluids such as mucus (being a powerful expectorant).
Lastly, it also has effects in reducing the blood sugar level, something that can be useful for the diabetic population. It is used in food, medicinal products, or even in body hygiene products.
5. Horsetail
This plant, specifically its stem, is especially known to those with cystitis or other urinary tract infections. It also has positive effects on skin and nails, being a good cellular regenerator, and also strengthening the bones. Rich in silicon and highly diuretic and depurative, it helps to eliminate toxins. It has astringent properties that help control bleeding.
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6. Hypericum
Also called St. John's wort. This medicinal plant has different properties, but it highlights the fact that it has antidepressant properties (in this sense, caution is required if it is combined with antidepressants, and its consumption is not recommended for more than six months), blocking the reuptake of monoamines.
It has also been found useful in anxiety and insomnia problems, and improving disturbances of menstrual flow. Its analgesic and regulating the capacity of heartburn are also known, as well as its role as an aid to remedy diarrhea and vomiting. Also, it has been seen in animals that extracts of hypericum could help improve insulin resistance.
7. Ginger
Ginger
This spice is very useful, having multiple properties that make it an increasingly relevant medicinal plant. In addition to antibacterial, antiviral, and antiparasitic properties, it has been observed to have anti-inflammatory and antiemetic effects (it reduces nausea and vomiting).
Digestive problems, fatigue, headaches, and menstrual pain are some of the problems in which it has been effective.
8. Thyme
Thyme has antioxidant and antiseptic properties. Rich in flavonoids, vitamin C, iron, and magnesium. It stimulates the appetite and is also used as an expectorant. Its antiseptic action made it used in ancient times to treat wounds. It is also good for toning skin and hair.
9. Lavender
Lavender has relaxing properties, being useful for situations of stress and insomnia. In addition to this, it has healing, anesthetic, and promoting properties of circulation and the proper functioning of the respiratory system. It also has properties that improve the digestion and secretion of gastric juices.
10. Tila
Another highly known medicinal plant with relaxing properties is lime. Whether in flower or infusion form, it is widely used to reduce the level of stress and anxiety and to relax the body. It also facilitates sleep and is diuretic, in addition to having antispasmodic properties. It also increases the excretion of toxins through sweat (which also enhances).
11. Dandelion
Dandelion is a very nutritious plant (it is proposed that it can have more iron than even products like spinach) and with multiple medicinal properties. Especially indicated for liver and kidney problems (for example stones or grits), it improves diuresis and detoxification of the body, in addition to having stimulating properties.
However, it is contraindicated for pregnant women and people who suffer from bipolar disorder and are medicated with lithium salts, in addition to which it can present interactions with other medications.
12. Ginkgo biloba
The leaves of this plant appear to have positive properties when it comes to stimulating cognitive performance. It is said that it improves memory and concentration, although the consensus is not as broad as is believed. It is also an antioxidant and improves blood circulation.
It also has contraindications, especially when taking anticoagulants or other products that already facilitate the flow of blood.
13. Mate
The plant with which the well-known Argentine drink is made is also very positive for health. We are dealing with a powerful antioxidant that also improves the immune system. It also has stimulating effects, such as tea or coffee, and contributes to lowering cholesterol. It favors physical and mental activity and is also a diuretic.
14. Oregano
Oregano is an old acquaintance of our kitchens, traditionally highly valued and which also has great medicinal properties. Especially known for its antioxidant action, it also has antifungal, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antihistamine properties.
Cramps, headaches, stomach, and molar pain, and respiratory problems can benefit from its consumption whether ingested or in tea.
15. Passionflower
It is a plant that has calming properties. It lowers blood pressure and reduces the heart rate. In addition to cardiovascular problems, it is useful in treating sleep problems. It has a mild bronchodilator and antispasmodic properties.
It is a pain reliever and also helps calm gastrointestinal problems. In other uses, it can be used to treat burns and inflammations.
16. Willow bark
Not only spices, flowers, and roots have medicinal properties, but elements such as willow bark can also serve to alleviate certain ills. The extract from this bark is useful as an anti-inflammatory. It has also been found useful for weight loss, headache treatment (in fact, its active ingredient is salicylic acid, such as aspirin), arthritis, and bone pain.
As with aspirin, however, this plant may have contraindications (it is not recommended for children, adolescents, or nursing mothers, nor for those who consume anticoagulants). It is also used to cure skin problems, corns, and warts.
17. Agave
Agave also has medicinal properties. Specifically, its use in the healing of wounds and sores stands out, and it can be used as a disinfectant (although misused it could become poisonous). Its sap, in addition to a possible antiseptic, is useful to stimulate the intestinal flora and decrease cholesterol and triglycerides.
Some research shows that it favors bone calcification and the regulation of insulin production (with which diabetics and people with bone problems could benefit from this plant). In its time it was used to try to treat syphilis, jaundice, or tuberculosis. However, this plant also has contraindications and can generate dermatitis.
18. Blueberry
Blueberries also have medicinal properties. Its fruit is not only edible but it is also a powerful antioxidant, which is also a diuretic and beneficial in preventing urinary and kidney problems. Antibacterial, helps to treat infections. It is also astringent.
Holly
Some varieties of this plant have been used to treat a large number of problems, from lowering fever to purgative, as well as being an element that contributes to fighting jaundice. It has diuretic and relaxing effects, in addition to lowering blood pressure and helping to treat digestive problems.
20. Elderflower
This beautiful flower has been used as a remedy to treat different problems. With antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, in addition to diuretics and laxatives, it has been used to treat flu episodes and decrease cough and mucosal problems. It also appears to lower cholesterol and lower blood sugar levels.
21. Yucca
This perennial shrub native to certain central regions of South America, in tropical parts. What makes it special is that its roots are very rich in starches and help to increase metabolic rate and lose weight, although it is very important to combine it with foods rich in macronutrients since this ingredient does not provide them.
Keep in mind that constant consumption of large amounts of cassava with vitamin and mineral deficiencies can cause illness, so it is better to ration it sensibly.
22. Ginseng
This plant is used as an ingredient for infusions that can be used to provide energy and keep people active. In addition, it reduces blood pressure and strengthens the immune system, by enhancing the production of lymphocytes.
23. Mint pennyroyal
Pennyroyal has been used for a long time for its ability to increase appetite and improve the assimilation of nutrients by the body, which improves the digestion process.
24. chamomile
Chamomile
Chamomile is very useful to end heartburn, among other things. However, caution should be taken with its consumption, since it is contraindicated for pregnant women given the risk that it will facilitate an abortion.
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25. Nettle
Nettle is a plant with a bad reputation because its leaves produce hives, but beyond this annoying characteristic, we can find medicinal properties. In particular, nettle has the ability to exercise as a vasoconstrictor, which is useful in cases where bleeding must be stopped.
On the other hand, since it contains a lot of iron, it can also be used to fight anemia.
26. Foxglove
This plant is rich in digoxin and digitoxin, which exerts a diuretic effect and promotes blood circulation.
27. Sandalwood
Its antiseptic properties based on sandalwood make the essential oils of this plant a good help to disinfect wounds. Furthermore, it is an effective diuretic.
28. Poppy
Poppy is a herb that grows naturally in a wide variety of environments and has been used as an ingredient for millennia for its narcotic pain relief properties. These substances have served as the basis for developing psychoactive agents used in codeine and morphine, for example.
29. Dill
Dill seeds have been used for medicinal purposes since ancient times, especially against pain associated with menstruation (dysmenorrhea) and spasms.
It is normally consumed in the form of an infusion, although on occasions it has also been used to create mixtures applied to wounds and burns and promote regeneration of the skin and cleaning of the exposed area.
30. Celery
Celery is a common ingredient when preparing well-known dishes in the kitchen, but it can also be considered a member of the group of medicinal plants. This vegetable is used as a digestive and laxative, due to its high fiber content. The diuretic effects of this thick-stemmed vegetable are also well known.
31. Wormwood
Wormwood, also known as holy herb or bitter mugwort, is a medicinal plant well known on all continents and has been used for thousands of years.
Specifically, it is used to whet the appetite (as an appetizer), and in some cases to eliminate parasitic infestations. Furthermore, it is an ingredient used in alcoholic beverages such as absinthe.
32. Kava
Kava is a medicinal plant native to Polynesia. Its roots are especially used to make mixtures with anesthetic and sedative effects and for oral consumption.
Of course, the way in which this plant affects us depends on the type of strain from which the plant to be used comes from, given that there is a great variety of groups planted in very different contexts and from artificial selection have given way to variants genetically different.
33. Rue
Rue is a shrub-like plant with leaves from which it is possible to make essential oils used in traditional medicine. Specifically, this substance is used as an antispasmodic and sedative.
34. Calendula
Calendula is another of the medicinal plants that, beyond home remedies, has also been used in cooking as another ingredient. Its flower is popular for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties, so it is applied to wounds.
35. Rosehip
Rosehip is used to relieve pain related to ailments such as arthritis and certain infections. In addition, it is one of the richest plants in vitamin C, so that those with deficiencies in this sense can incorporate it into their diet in the form of infusions, jams, or soups.
36. Water vine
The water vine (Cissus verticillata) is a climbing plant in areas of Central America, Colombia, and Venezuela. It is used as an anticonvulsant and to treat bleeding.
37. Elm
The bark of this tree is used for its antibacterial properties, and also as a dietary supplement, as well as against irritation of the throat (it generates a mucosa that protects the tissue).
38. Fennel
Fennel is a common medicinal plant in Mediterranean ecosystems. It is appreciated for its diuretic properties and for promoting the expulsion of gases and digestion.
39. Lemongrass
Lemongrass (Melissa officinalis), lemon balm, or lemon leaf is a perennial plant used in teas to promote a relaxed state. It is a painkiller known over many centuries.
40. Castor bean
Castor oil is a well-known purgative and is consumed orally despite its unpleasant taste. Of course, its preparation is very dangerous because it uses seeds that contain a powerful poison. If the preparation does not know how to eliminate these toxic components, you must avoid using it as a homemade ingredient.
41. Konjac
Konjac (Amorphophallus konjac), also known as the devil's tongue, is a plant native to China and Southeast Asia that due to its high concentration of fiber is used as a dietetic. It is very common to use it to make gelatin substituting products of animal origin.
42. Wild lettuce
Wild lettuce (Lactuca virosa) is a plant with psychoactive properties that is used as a sedative in some settings. However, its home use is not recommended and is prohibited in several countries.
43. Fern gu-sui-bu
This variety of fern, whose scientific name is Drynaria Rossii, has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine to promote the regeneration of bones after suffering damage, and there are studies that support this healing property.
44. Reed of mats
This type of junk is used in some regions of Western Asia as an ingredient to add in food for tired people and with little energy.
45. Among-among
Certain parts of this tropical tree are used to help eliminate parasites such as lice or scabies.
46. Khat
This shrub grows in various regions of Africa and is used as a psychostimulant. However, the fact that it is relatively underpowered has made it legal in many Western countries where cocaine derivatives (from a plant unrelated to it) are prohibited. Regardless, abusing it can lead to long-term cognitive damage.
47. Kaempferia rotunda
This medicinal plant is boiled to be used on the skin and to relieve itching.
48. St. Simon's Grass
Circaea lutetiana has been used for centuries to lower fever and alleviate rheumatism discomfort.
49. Kadsura longipedunculata
This shrub native to China and parts of Southeast Asia is used to treat some gastrointestinal problems (slow digestion), and infections.
50. Guaco
The infusions of this climbing plant also called a vine, are used as an anti-inflammatory.
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