by Introduction to Medicinal Plants
Medicinal plants, also called medicinal herbs, have been used in herbalism and traditional medicine practices for thousands of years. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 80% of the world’s population still relies mainly on plant-based medicines for their primary health care needs. Medicinal plants contain biologically active compounds known as phytochemicals that can be extracted or consumed to aid in healing. Some main types of phytochemicals found in medicinal plants include alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, and phenolic compounds. These compounds are synthesized in the plants as secondary metabolites to protect them from diseases and stressors in the environment. When consumed by humans, they can positively impact and modulate physiological systems.
Commonly Used Medicinal Plants
Some of the most commonly Botanicals used medicinal plant species around the world include Echinacea, aloe vera, garlic, ginger, turmeric, ginkgo, ginseng, St. John’s wort, witch hazel, peppermint, chamomile, and eucalyptus. Echinacea is native to North America and was traditionally used by Native Americans to treat colds, coughs, flu, and infections. Its immune-boosting effects are attributed to flavonoids, alkamides, and polysaccharides. Aloe vera has a long history of topical use to treat wounds, burns, and skin conditions due to its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and wound-healing properties from anthraquinones and polysaccharides. Garlic contains the organosulfur compounds allicin and diallyl disulfide which provide its antimicrobial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and heart-healthy effects.
Ginger is valued for its ability to reduce nausea and stomach upset while also easing inflammation, pain, and respiratory and digestive issues through gingerols, shogaols, and zingerone. Turmeric contains the polyphenol curcumin which gives it bright yellow color and anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer and neuroprotective benefits. Ginkgo biloba, an herbal supplement derived from tree leaves, supports memory function and cognitive performance partly due to antioxidant effects of flavonoids and terpenoids. Panax ginseng root has a lengthy use in traditional Chinese medicine to enhance energy levels, boost immune function, reduce stress and support overall well-being through ginsenosides compounds.
St. John’s wort is commonly taken as an herbal supplement for mild to moderate depression and anxiety due to its hypericin and hyperforin content. Witch hazel is well known as a natural skincare ingredient in creams and lotions for its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties from tannins. Peppermint contains menthol which gives cooling sensation when applied topically to muscle pain or used aromatically to reduce stress, headaches and indigestion issues. Chamomile flower is steeped as a relaxing tea for its calming and anti-inflammatory effects attributed to apigenin, flavones and terpenoids. Eucalyptus oil, when diffused aromatically or applied topically, can help clear nasal congestion and soothe sore throats with its cineole, terpineol and other components.
Using Herbal medicines Safely and Effectively
While Botanicals can provide natural remedies when used properly, it is important to only consume therapeutic-grade products from reputable manufacturers. As with any type of medication, there are safety issues to consider with herbal medicines. According to the FDA, some things to keep in mind include:
– Herbal medicines can interact or interfere with prescribed medications through alterations in liver enzyme activity. Always consult your healthcare provider before combining herbal medicines with conventional drugs or supplements.
– Quality and purity vary between supplement brands, so choose products verified by a third-party for quality and purity standards like Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) certification.
– Follow dosage guidelines carefully. Taking very high amounts of certain herbal medicines can potentially cause toxicity in some cases. Standardized extracts provide more consistent dosing.
– Be aware of potential allergies or sensitivities to certain plants, especially if administered topically. Patch test new herbal medicines products applied directly to the skin.
– Some herbal medicines should be avoided during pregnancy or breastfeeding without clearance from an herbal medicine expert and midwife or doctor due to lack of research on safety.
– Store products in a cool, dark place and check expiration dates, as potency can decline over time if not properly maintained.
Used appropriately, Botanicals extracts from plants like Echinacea, turmeric and ginger can support wellness when incorporated into a healthy lifestyle. Following guidance from reputable sources on quality and safety considerations allows the therapeutic powers of nature to be fully appreciated. Herbal medicines medicines continue to pave new paths in integrative healthcare.
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1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
Money Singh is a seasoned content writer with over four years of experience in the market research sector. Her expertise spans various industries, including food and beverages, biotechnology, chemical and materials, defense and aerospace, consumer goods, etc.
