A Look At Common Medicinal Herbs and Plants, Plus How They’re Used

With so many scientific advancements in the world today, there are more natural remedies than ever before. Medicinal plants and herbs are in abundance and are increasingly relied upon as natural alternatives, with different levels of efficacy. In fairness, most herbs still have to be completely tested to see how they work with supplements, medicines, or certain foods. Much like kratom, which is still being learned about, this makes it important that you consult with your doctor about the benefits and risks when taking natural medicine. Many, however, are safe and work wonders in moderation.

Here’s a look at some common medicinal herbs and plants that have become popular in modern medicine as well as their uses.

Chamomile

This is one of the most commonly used medicinal plants in the U.S., as it’s seen as the ideal antidote for anxiety. It calms the nerves and helps you sleep better. You’ll usually find it in your local supermarket tea form, sometimes mixed with lemon and other flavors. However, if you’re not a tea person, there are chamomile capsules and powders you can take, which offer similar benefits.

Not only can you drink it, but you can use it as a compress as well. In Europe, chamomile is used to heal wounds, and reduce inflammation and swelling. It is largely deemed safe for long-term use and can even be used to ease skin irritation after radiation treatments for cancer.

The only drawback is that it may interfere with how the body reacts to other medications such as blood thinners and could trigger allergies. That said, it’s one of the most reliable plants you’re likely to find.

Echinacea

An immune system booster, echinacea is particularly useful during flu season as it can be used to treat or ease symptoms of flu and colds. It’s a mainstay of modern gardens and is featured in several traditional and natural treatments. It is commonly mixed into tea, juice, supplements and powders; used as a remedy for many common ailments. Furthermore, echinacea can be used to ease upper respiratory infections. The long-term benefits are still being assessed, with concerns over how the immune system adapts to it over time. Short-term usage is fine and its compatibility with other medications you’re taking need to be discussed with your doctor or specialist.

If you’re allergic to daisies or similar plants like marigolds and chrysanthemums, you should steer clear of taking it as it can trigger allergic reactions.

Flaxseed

Another one of the medicinal plants and herbs that’s long been popular and recommended, flaxseed is a food ingredient used in oatmeal, smoothies, and bread. You’ll find several brands that sell flaxseed in tablet form as well. Supplement makers tend to make flaxseed oil tablets by themselves or sometimes mix them with Omega-3.

It has anti-inflammatory benefits, can reduce blood pressure and can even reduce your chances of getting colon cancer. It’s one of the safest medicinal plants and herbs you can use, though it should never be had raw or unripe as it can cause indigestion and high toxic buildup in your body. The downside, especially for women, is that flaxseed can decrease estrogen production, especially during pregnancy.

Ginkgo

Ginkgo is known for its cognitive benefits, helping you think straight or regain memory. It has been used to treat patients with mild or moderate dementia, reducing anxiety and slowing certain degenerative disorders. The plant extract has also been used to treat respiratory conditions and fight fatigue.

While it has slight effectiveness, its long-term prospects have also come into question from health experts. Plant extract is recommended because ginkgo seeds contain high-level toxins that can cause seizures, and are even fatal in large amounts. It should not be taken with anti-inflammatory medicines or tricyclic antidepressants.

Ginseng

You’ll see ginseng used as a tonic or aphrodisiac, and it’s said to boost vitality and energy. It’s particularly popular in the Caribbean, though used quite a bit in the U.S. It’s been said to be a cure-all. However, if you have specific conditions, you can’t use anything containing ginseng at all. Side effects include high blood pressure as well as tachycardia. It should not be taken with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines, estrogens, or digoxin. You also shouldn’t use it if you have diabetes.

It’s been branded safe by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It can benefit brain function, can improve erectile dysfunction, and can lower blood sugar. But, it’s advised this be taken with caution.

While you’re still reading up on the uses and effects of kratom, these medicinal plants and herbs are reliable to use to help you tackle whatever ailments you may have. Use them in moderation and, if you see the results you want, you can rely less on pills and go natural.