Herbs as Medicine- Most popular 20 herbs used as medicine. We may think that herbal medicine is a thing of the past, but we are still using it. Herbs are an integral part of our lives and it is only recently that we have started realizing the kind of power they have. The practice of herbal medicine is so widespread that it takes a lot of time to study it.
Most of the time, people use herbs to supplement their diet. Many medical conditions have herbal tea as their primary form of treatment. This is due to the natural components found in herbs. Some of these are antioxidants, and others help to speed up the metabolism. This video will talk about the health benefits of some herbs.
Patients who concurrently seek traditional medical treatment often utilize herbs and associated items. While certain plants have been thoroughly explored, others remain relatively unknown. The National Institutes of Health established the Office of Alternative Medicine in 1992. With this new office established, it would be feasible to make a number of significant changes in the way alternative medicine is investigated and remedies created. 30% of all current pharmaceuticals are derived from plants. According to various estimates, between 3% and 93% of the US population consumes herbs.
Due to the prohibition on manufacturers making direct claims of cures on the label, manufacturers have become creative with their marketing. Only 5% of the herbal market in the United States is actually sold in pharmacies.
How can we be encouraged to use traditional herbal medicine instead of synthetic, incomplete copies of herbs that are called drugs, given how much money has been spent on the search for these “elusive” substances? This question is on many people’s minds. This will be a topic for discussion another day.
In this article, we are going to look at 20 herbs that have been considered medicinal.
Echinacea:
Echinacea, or coneflower, is a flowering plant indigenous to North America. There are several forms of Echinacea commonly used today; pills are the most popular form of this herbal remedy. It’s long been used as a medicinal herb for the treatment of various ailments, including wounds, burns, toothaches, sore throats, bowel pain, snake bites, seizures, skin irritation, arthritis, cancer and upset stomachs. The roots are usually used medicinally but can also be taken in tea or applied topically. It has also been used hundreds of years as an immune system booster and for treating colds, flu, and other infections. Some studies do show some benefits from taking echinacea for upper respiratory infections. There hasn’t been any serious noticeable side effects from using echinacea; But always talk about using herbal remedies with a doctor before trying anything new.
Ginkgo Biloba:
The ginkgo tree, also known as the maidenhair tree, and one of the oldest surviving species on earth, is native to China but cultivated in many places across the world. Long used in traditional Chinese medicine, ginkgo leaves are most commonly sold as extracts or supplements and available in tablets. Historically known for its longevity promoting properties and potential to support brain health, today ginkgo may be purchased and consumed by people looking to improve their memory and concentration. Many users of this herbal remedy report gentle improvement in their quality of life after long-term use of the supplement. Ginkgo leaves have been used for medicinal intake for thousands of years by many different cultures. These include treating bronchitis, asthma, chronic fatigue, and tinnitus (ringing in the ears). Some people also believe that gingko has powerful brain-boosting properties, though more research is needed to determine if this is true.
Saint-John’s-wort:
Saint-John’s-wort is a flowering plant. It grows in a variety of regions across Europe, Western Asia and North Africa, but is widely naturalized elsewhere. It has small yellow flowers, and pinelike serrated leaves. The flowers and leaves are used to create herbal remedies for a number of ailments including depression. Today, Saint John’s wort is just as well known for alleviating symptoms of depression as it is for raising levels of serotonin in the brain by up to 50%. Studies show that it may even be more effective than traditional antidepressants that work on serotonin, or SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors). It seems that taking only 1,000 mgs a day can bring about a full recovery from moderate depression after twelve weeks! . People experienced increased reactions to light while taking large doses of St.John’s Wort but the effects were not dangerous or even life-threatening. However, there are serious side effects for some people when interacting with other medications, – it’s very important to remember that you always need to talk with your physician before starting a new medication!
Ashwagandha :
Ashwagandha falls under the category of adaptogens. Ashwagandha comes from the Withania somnifera plant, also known as Indian ginseng and Indian winter cherry. The evergreen shrub is native to Africa and Asia and grows widely in some parts of the India region. Ashwagandha root is used widely in Ayurvedic medicine, which posits that the herb increases life forces and supports mental balance while reducing stress levels. There’s also a long history of use for sexual health issues including erectile dysfunction, libido (sexual desire), fertility, bringing on menstruation, treating menstrual pain; for hormonal issues like thyroid disease or endocrine problems as well as for symptoms associated with menopause, improve memory and increase concentration; for arthritis treatment; as an antioxidant to help remove toxins from your body; to support weight control among many other uses! Ashwagandha is a plant native to Asia. It’s available in many forms, such as capsules, tinctures and powders. Ashwagandha powder can have an earthy, bitter flavor that might be unpleasant on its own; however, it blends easily into dishes like smoothies, desserts and coffee or tea to make tasty treats! Its bitter flavor makes ashwagandha great for those who love herbal bitters.
Chamomile:
Chamomile flowers are generally small, with yellow petals and a low-growing, green flower head. Native to Western Europe, India and Western Asia, chamomile is most popular in the United States. There are two types of chamomile: German (grows in the Midwest) and Roman (a perennial herb that smells like apples). chamomile is one of the most popular herbal remedies for reducing inflammation. But did you know that chamomile may also have a hand in your heart health? Scientists have discovered that chamomile reduces blood cholesterol, inhibiting an enzyme that plays an important role in ensuring proper levels of HDL and LDL cholesterol. Chamomile can also improve symptoms associated with type 2 diabetes and reduce the severity of stomach disorders such as indigestion. chamomile provides antioxidant, antibiotic, antidiabetic, antidepressant, anti-inflammatory and antidiarrheal. It also helps manage osteoarthritis on knees, ulcerative colitis as well as premenstrual syndrome and gastrointestinal disorders.
Calendula.
The genus Calendula includes annuals and herbaceous perennials, commonly known as marigolds. The name calendula is derived from the Latin word kalendae, meaning “the first day of the month.” The name originated because the flower bloomed about the time of the Roman new year. The flowers are edible and have mild health benefits. They have been in use since ancient times. Calendula is a European native plant whose petals and flowers are used to make medicine. The petals of the Indian marigold contain many chemicals, such as flavonoids, tannins, carotenoids, and phenolic acids. Calendula also contains many minerals like calcium, sodium, potassium, and iron. Calendula plants are cultivated for their medicinal properties and are used as medicinal spices. Calendula is a good anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal agent. It protects the skin from the harmful rays of the sun and also helps to cure infections.
Punarnava :
Punarnava or Holy basil is also called tulsi leaves. Punarnava is a plant that belongs to the family of Moraceae. It is found in the tropical forests of India, Sri Lanka, and SouthEast Asia. Punarnava is used to treat a wide range of health issues. It is an excellent source of antioxidants and helps in curing many health issues. Punarnava helps to stimulate digestion, aids in the growth of lean muscle mass, and is a great source of antioxidants. Punarnava has been used in many different ways in Ayurveda, with its roots being used to treat several health problems, including heart diseases, arthritis, ulcers, renal diseases and more.
Andrographis:
Andrographis is a plant with a long history of medicinal use. In Ayurveda, India’s traditional medicine, two species of Andrographis are used. The most commonly used species is also called chandrashoor. Other names for this herb include kalmegh, krishna-chandra, saraswat and vrishabha-gaja. The herb is also sometimes referred to as chandrashoor. The other species of Andrographis is called as Andrographis paniculata. It is also sometimes referred to as kalmegh-patt. Andrographis (Andrographis paniculata) is a healthy herb that can be grown easily in your backyard. You can use it both for medicinal and culinary purposes. Andrographis has anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-fungal and anti-oxidant properties. Its health benefits include treating common cold, upper respiratory infections, cough, bronchitis, asthma and more.
Acorus calamus. 
Acorus calamus, also known as sweet-scented rush or sweet calamus, is a plant native to India. It is commonly used for medicinal purposes. This herb has anti-inflammatory properties and is used to treat fevers and inflammation caused by some infections. It has also been used to cure the ailments of the liver and jaundice. The powdered root has been used for curing ulcers and wounds. Many ayurvedic medicinal recipes use the Acorus calamus root. This herb is also known to have a sweet smell..
Centella Asiatica, also known as Gotu Kola,
Centella Asiatica benefits are many and varied and are believed to be one of the reasons why the elderly in Southeast Asia have a youthful appearance. You can use the herbs or extracts in skincare products, supplements, or even tinctures. I’s an herb used for a variety of purposes ranging from skin care to hair growth. No matter what flavor you’re after, Gotu Kola can be added in to help provide your final product with many vitamins- including A, C and E. They are natural antioxidants that can slow down the process of aging in addition to giving your project a nice scent.
Milk thistle. 
Milk thistle is a plant that is native to the Mediterranean region but has spread to some parts of North Africa, the Middle East, and southern Europe. It is a wild plant that has been traditionally grown in the Mediterranean region for centuries. Milk thistle has been used for a long time as a food source and for medical purposes for everything from improving liver function to treating skin conditions. Milk thistle is a popular herb that has traditionally been used for problems with the liver and bile ducts. Research suggests that it works by increasing production of glutathione , an antioxidant that may protect the liver, stomach, heart, and intestines from damage while helping to get rid of toxins in the body. Milk thistle seed oil is sometimes applied or taken orally as a natural treatment for problems including cirrhosis (scarring of the liver), jaundice, hepatitis (inflammation of part of the liver), gallbladder disorders (for example, gallstones ), and symptoms caused by drinking excessive amounts of alcohol .
Nettle.
Have you heard of stinging nettle? This flowering herb is known for its ability to fight off numerous diseases and heal a number of health problems. People have been using this herb for a long time, and it has recently seen a surge in popularity. The herb is frequently used for cardiovascular problems, detoxification, healing wounds, and many other health-related issues. Nettles are an excellent herbal remedy for detoxifying the body, strengthening the immune system, and supporting healthy blood pressure. They are extremely beneficial for the kidneys, liver, lungs, and blood. They are often cooked or added to broths, soups, or teas.
Neem.
Neem is one of the most useful trees in the world. It is also known as the “village pharmacy” as it has more than 100 useful products in its leaves, pulp, bark, and seeds. Neem is a medicinal herb that can be used to prevent and relieve various diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and skin conditions. You can extract juice from the fruit and leaves of the neem tree. Neem leaves have been used to make toothpaste, shampoo, soap, and cream because they are good for people who have illnesses.
Mint.
Mint or Peppermin is a flowering herb with a fresh, cool flavor. It grows in a variety of places and is widely used as a food flavor and as a medicine. Mint is widely used in cooking dishes like mint panna cotta, mint jelly, and mint chutney. It is also used in many candies, including Peppermints and Altoid’s, used in making herbal teas, and in wintergreen oil, used for its medicinal properties. Peppermint is a hybrid mint, a cross between watermint and spearmint.
Elecampane.
Basically, elecampane root can be used for medicinal reasons but there’s not enough scientific evidence currently out there to support the claims made. It is said that it has been proven to help treat bronchitis and/or asthma, and may also reduce intestinal worms in adults. In food, elecampane is used as a flavoring agent but overall it’s not terribly common because of its bitter taste. Some breweries use elecampane flowers in their brewing process. For perfumery, one could use elecampane leaves since they have a lemony scent. Or, manufacture soap with elecampane if you wanted a clean-smelling ooze out of the product!
Kutki.
Kutki is also known as “Ashokarishta” as it was first found in the forest of Ashoka. Kutki powder is dark brown in color and has a cooling effect on the body. It is primarily used as an aphrodisiac and an anti-inflammatory. It is used to treat inflammation-related issues. It is a powerhouse of essential nutrients and minerals. It helps nourish the nervous system and is also used to manage diabetes. Kutki is one herb that is in high demand but can be grown in a backyard.Kutki herb has been used to help support healthy liver, digestion, and elimination through all of the body’s eliminatory channels like the skin, respiratory tract, lungs and immune system — but did you know it also supports detoxification? Kutki has powerful antioxidant properties that help promote overall health by supporting your body’s natural ability to eliminate wastes naturally through the lymphatic system and liver which are the two main channels for detoxification in the human body!
Ginseng.
Ginseng is a plant grown for its roots and medicinal purposes. There are two types of ginseng. These are Asian and American. The roots usually have a fleshy white exterior which is covered by the skin. The fleshy white exterior is fleshy in nature and has a sweet taste, while the inner part is tough and woody. The Asian varieties are black in color, while the American ginseng is red in color. Ginseng is one of the most popular herbal remedies, typically used for the treatment of low sexual energy and exhaustion. Ginseng has been used for thousands of years, and it is one of the most popular herbs in the world. Most people use ginseng extract and other forms of ginseng to improve their overall sexual health and performance.
Gymnema Sylvestre.
Gymnema Sylvestre is a plant that has been used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for many centuries. It is widely used in India and is also known as the Indian arrowroot or harebell plant. Gymnema sylvestre is considered one of the most effective home remedies for the management of diabetes. It helps to promote the creation of insulin and prevent the release of insulin by the pancreas. This unique herb also helps to control blood sugar levels.
Astragalus
Astragalus is a plant with a long history in Chinese medicine and is used for many different ailments. It is mainly used for its anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties. Its root is the part that is used, and it is thought to be an adaptogen. Astragalus is a powerful herb that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 2,000 years. It has the ability to fight infections, boost immunity, support liver health, ease pain, and improve digestion.
Nirgundi
Nirgundi, also known as Vitex negundo, is a popular herbal remedy in Ayurvedic medicine. It is used to treat a wide range of conditions, including fever, pain, inflammation, and skin disorders. Nirgundi is also said to have a calming effect on the mind and body, and to be beneficial for the digestion. There is some scientific evidence to support the health benefits of nirgundi. Studies have shown that it has anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic properties. It is also a potent antioxidant, and has been shown to protect against liver damage. While more research is needed to confirm the health benefits of nirgundi, it is considered to be a safe and effective herbal remedy.
Yarrow
Yarrow is an aromatic herb traditionally used to heal wounds and treat bleeding. More specifically, it can be used as a bandage applied to open wounds in order to stop the bleeding or as a poultice when treating nosebleeds. Yarrow is a herb is used for a wide variety of conditions, including fever, the common cold, hay fever, and menstrual disorders. Yarrow is also great for digestive problems and can be used as a remedy for heavy bleeding. Some people chew on fresh leaves to relieve toothache.
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