Manufactured medicine and prescriptions do not have to be the only way to get the wholesome nutrients your body needs, especially when you can get it all natural from herbal remedies that can improve your physical and mental health. You should be aware of the possible side effects that come with manufactured medicine and be careful not to buy into the false advertising surrounded many of these manufactured medicines.
Medicinal plants can complement our current health regime and are much more harmless for your body. However, herbs might not be ideal for young children or pregnant and breastfeeding women, since they have not been tested for safety with these vulnerable groups.
For those that are wary and confused, do not fret just yet! It is always a good idea to do your research before making any changes in your diet, and so we have sieved out the best medicinal plants that are not only good for your body but have been scientifically proven to be for safe use. As a bonus, those with green fingers can also get their hands on growing these plants!
Gingko
One of the first tree species and with a lifespan of up to 3000 years, it is no surprise that Gingko is a key herb in ancient Chinese medicine. Gingko comes in the form of capsules, tablets, and extracts. When dried, it also comes in tea form. What people love about ginkgo is its ability to optimize brain health, treat patients with varying levels of dementia. Additionally, it can even slow down the effects of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
As more research is being done, the potential benefit of ginkgo has expanded to include bone healing, eye health, inflammation and even to fight diabetes. However, be careful not to consume the seeds are they are poisonous. Gingko is harsh on your liver, so those with liver-related issues may want to avoid this.
We have been so impressed with Gingko that we include this in our super greens formula (nootropic blend) to help boost cognitive ability.
Tumeric
Its bright orange stands out no matter where it is placed, but turmeric, which has its roots in India, is known more for just its outstanding color. This plant has anti-inflammatory properties, meaning that it is used by those needing to relieve the pain arthritis brings. It is also believed to be an anticancer and can prevent mutations in your body’s DNA.
Its rich flavor means that it is often used as a spice for cooking, so you are able to have many antioxidant-rich, nutritious meals without compromising on taste. Used for 4000 years, turmeric is recently being linked to helping prevent skin diseases as well. Overdosing its pill form is common, and hence consuming turmeric as a herb in cooking or tea is not only safer but also so prevent the stomach problems some people face with turmeric.
Evening Primrose Oil
Also known as moonflowers, evening primrose oil is derived from the bright yellow flower. The resultant product of oil is linked to preventing PMS and menopause symptoms in women, and skin conditions like eczema. It is also anti-inflammatory, which helps with conditions such as atopic dermatitis and diabetic neuropathy, or more basic ones like breast pain. Those with blood pressure issues or multiple sclerosis also tend to benefit from evening primrose oil.
However, do note that in spite of its benefits to women with regard to their menstrual problems, it has not been tested for safe use during pregnancy or for long-term use.
Tea tree oil
This Australian native has oil that has been consistently produced for its benefit for skin conditions. an oil that’s long been thought to be beneficial for skin conditions, such as mild acne, athlete’s foot, small wounds, insect bites, dandruff, and other inflammatory skin conditions.
Diluted tea tree oil is the recommended way to consume tea tree oil, which is the version we see in skincare products and creams. Be sure not to consume tea tree oil as it could trigger an allergic reaction or influence your hormones. It is also not beneficial for long-term use, and should not be taken orally.
Echinacea
Not only are these purple flowers beautiful to look at, but they are also good for you too. Echinacea has long been used in medicine since the 18th century, be it through teas, juices, or extracts. However, it is also consumed in the form of powders or supplements today. Most famous for its potential to shorten the symptoms of a cold, it is also known to provide immunity for viruses of all kinds, although more research is needed to ascertain this as a fact.
While echinacea might give you a few potential side effects, it is a relatively safe herb overall. Besides battling the flu, it could also be beneficial for other ailments such as bronchitis and upper respiratory infections. Unfortunately, it is possible to experience allergic reactions, and this can be tough on the digestive system or even cause upset to your stomach.
Through this list, we have shown you that it is possible to get natural remedies to ailments or conditions you might be facing through medicinal plants, without having to resort to manufactured supplements. These are not difficult to access, which means that manufactured products do not have to be your only option.
However, regardless of what type of remedy you should, it is important to note the dos and don’ts with regard to consuming or using that type of remedy. When in doubt, always consult a medical professional instead of taking the risk of overdosing on an unfamiliar herb. The goodness of nature is on our side, so don’t be afraid to make use of the wonders these herbs can bring to us and our bodies!