4 Medicinal Plants: Ancient Remedies for Modern Times

As one of the oldest tree species, gingko is also one of the oldest homeopathic plants and a key herb in Chinese medicine. The leaves are used to create capsules, tablets and extracts, and when dried, they can be consumed as tea. It is perhaps best known for its ability to improve brain health. Studies say gingko can treat patients with mild to moderate dementia and may slow cognitive decline in dementia and Alzheimer's disease.

The gingko is considered a living fossil, with fossils dating back 270 million years ago. These trees can live up to 3,000 years. With its bright orange hue, it's impossible to miss a bottle of turmeric on a spice rack. Turmeric, native to India, is believed to have anti-cancer properties and may prevent mutations.

According to recent research, turmeric also shows promise as a treatment for a variety of dermatological diseases and joint arthritis. Turmeric has been used as a medicinal herb for 4,000 years. It is a tentpole of an Indian alternative medicine practice called Ayurveda. The studies that are available on this oil tend to be everywhere, but there are studies that are more robust than others. For example, some studies have found that evening primrose oil has anti-inflammatory properties.

It is known to help with conditions such as atopic dermatitis and diabetic neuropathy. It can also help with other health problems, such as breast pain. According to these studies, evening primrose oil could be the Swiss army knife in the world of medicinal plants. The caveat is that it can interact with several medications.

More research is coming and applications are promising. Flax seed, also available as oil, is one of the safest options among plant-based dietary supplements. Harvested for thousands of years, today flax seed is praised for its antioxidant activity and anti-inflammatory benefits. While more research with humans is needed, study says flax seed may help prevent colon cancer. Another study cites that flax seed has the ability to lower blood pressure.

When consumed, it can even help reduce obesity. Many people add flaxseed and flaxseed meal to oats and smoothies, and it is also available in the form of tablets, oil (which can be put in capsules) and flour. The best way to add flax seeds is through diet. Sprinkle ground seeds on cereals or salads, cook in hot cereals, stews, homemade breads or milkshakes. Add Linseed Oil to Salad Dressing.

Flax seeds are one of the few vegetable sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Other sources include chia seeds, walnuts and soy. More studies are needed on acne and scalp use, but for now, there is a degree of research on the antimicrobial superpowers of tea tree oil in wounds and topical infections. Wilson recommends that tea tree oil, like all essential oils, be diluted in a carrier oil. He adds that it is often already diluted in a variety of skin care products and creams. Tea tree oil is derived from the leaves of a tree native to Queensland and New South Wales, Australia.

Echinacea is much more than those beautiful purple echinacea that you see dotting gardens. These flowers have been used for centuries as medicine in the form of teas, juices and extracts. Nowadays, they can be taken as powders or supplements. The most well-known use of echinacea is to shorten the symptoms of the common cold, but further studies are needed to verify this benefit and understand how echinacea increases immunity when there is a virus. In general, with the exception of some potential side effects, echinacea is relatively safe.

Even though you need more testing, you can always choose to use it if you expect your cold symptoms to end more quickly. Some of the first people to use echinacea as a medicinal herb were Native Americans. The first archaeological evidence dates back to the 18th century. Advanced medicines and pills have become such an important part of people's lives that Ayurveda seems to have completely disappeared from the picture. But Ayurveda contains some medicinal plants and herbs that can effectively treat and cure multiple health problems and can be excellent for your overall health. These plants have been part of our lives since our existence and have been used for various medicinal purposes since ancient times. Medicinal plants and herbs such as turmeric, ginger, basil leaves, mint and cinnamon are commonly used in Indian dishes and offer several health benefits - cold and flu relief; stress relief; better digestion; strong immune system; plus many more benefits! DoctorNDTV is the one-stop site for all your health needs - providing the most credible health information; news; advice; with expert tips on healthy living; diet plans; informational videos; etc. You can get the most relevant and accurate information you need about health problems such as diabetes; cancer; pregnancy; HIV/AIDS; weight loss; plus many other lifestyle diseases! We have a panel of more than 350 experts who help us develop content by providing valuable input; offering us the latest in the world of healthcare. Countries in WHO South-East Asia Region Renew Commitment to Eliminate Easy-to-Grow 10 Medicinal Plants at Home Did you know that ancient Unani manuscripts; ancient Chinese writings; Egyptian papyrus mentioned about medicinal plants? There is evidence of the use of medicinal herbs and plants even 4000 years ago. Unani Hakims; Vaids from India; European & Mediterranean cultures used these plants to heal people - the word herba comes from Latin word “herba” & French word “herbe”! These medicinal plants & herbs are used in a variety of medicines; foods; flavonoids & skin care products & perfumes. Among all ancient civilizations; India is one of the oldest - scriptures reveal India has been center for research; study; use & availability of medicinal plants - about 8000 herbal remedies have been coded into AYUSH systems in India (an acronym for Ayurveda; Yoga & Naturopathy; Unani; Siddha & Homeopathy).The Ajwain plant grows in clusters...