What’s new in the herbalist? 10 unknown plants full of properties

Three billion people use plants as their main means to heal. In China alone, more than 1,500 different species are used to make medicines.

For this reason, the unstoppable destruction of tropical forests, where the greater plant diversity of the planet, supposes the irreparable loss of unprecedented medicinal resources that could have had a very interesting use for human health.

10 medicinal plants that surely you do not know

Herbalists reach us plants that were known by the native peoples or that are discovered by the commitment and dedication of scholars of the matter. We show you these plants that probably will not sound familiar to you, but that have numerous clinical trials that have shown their therapeutic efficacy.

1. Wintergreen (wintergreen procumbens) to relieve rheumatic pain

From this American shrub, highly prized in gardening, which is also known as canada teaan essential oil with high anti-inflammatory value is obtained.

Alleviate the pain in arthritis and osteoarthritis, gout attacks, muscular contractures, sprains, tendinitis, cramps, low back pain, etc. It is an ally of the health of athletes, the elderly and hikers. In addition to being effective against pain, it is helpful in case of fever.

applies essential oil on the skin (2-8 drops dissolved in water). In this way the active ingredients are completely absorbed. It is also found in ointments and sprays.

2. Chinese Mugwort (Artemisia annua), treasure against fever

Well established in traditional Chinese medicine, it has become an asset in the fight against malaria and the cancer. Although its origin is eastern, it is easily found on banks and Mediterranean open spaces.

The leaves and flowers contain artemisinin, the main malaria treatment today. It can also be used in feverish states, flu processes and intestinal infections. Studies such as those of Tomikazu Sasaki, from the University of Washington, point to its interest as anticancer.

is taken in infusion either decoction (up to three cups daily), in tincture, liquid extract or syrup. In external use baths are taken or poultices are applied.

3. Bacopa (bacopa monnieri), enhances memory

Traditional Indian medicine uses it to enhance memory and reduce anxiety. It is being prescribed to enhance intellectual abilities, and is being tested in the treatment of diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. It is useful for relieving stress, mild anxiety, and lack of concentration.

It is not easy to find the dry plant for infusion. It is easier to buy capsules or tabletssometimes associated with gotu kola and vitamins B and E.

4. Shepherd’s tea (clandestine sideritis), the friend of the brain

It is indigenous to Mediterranean regions and has traditionally been used to treat respiratory and digestive conditions. Recent studies show a protective effect on neurons that can be useful in dementia and nervous disorders.

It is used in infusionwith a pleasant flavor, 15-20 g of dry plant per liter, three glasses a day.

5. Perilla (Perilla frutescens) to stop allergies

In the East it is considered a panacea in the cure of respiratory conditions. It has also shown its usefulness in reducing the symptoms caused by allergies. It helps you combat spring allergies or those caused by Mites. It has the ability to prevent cell oxidation.

is taken in infusionin vapors with thyme and the essential oil topically.

6. Chebula or myrobalan (Terminalia chebula), powerful digestive balm

In the ayurvedic medicine It is used to treat both diarrhea and constipation. It is applied to regulate the intestinal transitas well as in the treatment of anemia, hemorrhoids and liver disorders.

is taken in decoction of dried fruits or by applying plasters and poultices.

7. Cyclamen (Cyclamen hederifolium) to relieve sinusitis

It comes from the forests and rocky areas of the Mediterranean, from the south of France to Turkey and the islands of the Aegean Sea. It is cultivated as an ornamental type plant.

The rhizomes cyclamen have effective compounds to treat sinusitis. This plant is also recommended in cases of nervous disorders, menstrual pain, acute constipation or intestinal worms.

He liquid extract It is sprayed into the nose for the treatment of sinusitis. It is also consumed in decoction, dry extract and homeopathy.

8. Moringa (moringa oleifera), helps keep cholesterol under control

It has become popular as a superfood rich in iron and calciumbut it is an important medicinal plant in Asian traditions.

The leaves and seeds They are recommended to reduce cholesterol and triglycerides, to treat hypertension, liver disorders and gastritis.

is taken in infusion of the leavesin liquid extract and in capsules or tablets.

9. Kalanchoe (Bryophyllum pinnatum), defense against viruses

Very common in gardens, it has become popular for its possible antitumor capacity, which is under study. The briophilina It is the compound to which an anticancer effect is attributed, but it is also an antiviral. It can be used against herpes and digestive infections.

is taken in liquid extract internally. Externally the juice is applied to make massages or poultices against pain.

10. Chaparral (mexican larrea), anti-cancer promise

This creeping plant from the Mexican desert contains an antitumor component whose ability to reduce tumors is being verified. Traditionally it was used in sexually transmitted diseasesamong other.

Although it can be prepared as an infusion, the most common way to consume it is in homeopathic presentation.

This article has been prepared with the advice of Josep Maria Teixé, herbalist at El Manantial de Salud.