Modern medicine has sure made some incredible advances over the years. It seems like there are new advances in healthcare on a daily basis. From medicines that treat chronic health conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, to prescriptions that ease the side effects of anxiety and depression.
While synthetic medications certainly have their place, sometimes, there may be more natural options to consider. What type of options? – Plants! Since the beginning of time, people have been using plants to treat various aches, pains, and illnesses. In fact, the Ebers Papyrus, the oldest medical document on record, sites how the Ancient Egyptians used plants for medicinal purposes.
What if there was a way that you could treat your ailments without having to rely on pharmaceuticals? Depending on what it is that is ailing you, there’s probably a natural, plant-based remedy that can help you! Here’s a look at some of the plants that are most commonly used for medicinal purposes.
Marijuana
Though it’s been a highly controversial topic for decades, in recent years, marijuana has been getting a lot of attention for the medicinal benefits it can offer.
According to Harvard Health Publishing, medicinal marijuana can treat a variety of medical issues. It’s most commonly used to treat pain that is associated with multiple conditions, such as cancer and multiple sclerosis. However, this natural herb can also be used to relieve the symptoms that are associated with a variety of health issues, including anxiety and even severe forms of epilepsy. In fact, Charlotte’s Web, a specific strain of marijuana, is used to treat Dravet syndrome, a form of childhood epilepsy that is virtually impossible to treat with any other medication.
Peppermint
Peppermint is hailed for its delicious taste and it’s delightful aroma, but that’s not all this plant can do. It can actually help ease conditions that affect the respiratory system. If you have a cold or a cough coming on, inhaling peppermint can calm respiratory tract and soothe any inflammation. It can also aid in digestive health issues, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Eating peppermint or taking a supplement that contains the herb can calm peristalsis movement that triggers IBS.
Lavender
Lavender is one of the most popular flowers used in aromatherapy, and for good reason. The oil of these highly aromatic flowers contains esters that can suppress muscle spasms, promote calmness, and easy anxiety and depression. Lavender oil can also help to encourage sleep and ease insomnia and restlessness. And that’s not all lavender can do! – It can also help to improve circulation, thereby lowering high blood pressure, making it a useful remedy for hypertension.
Chamomile
Chamomile is another plant that is famed for the health benefits that it offers. It’s most commonly consumed as a tea and used to treat upset stomachs. Chamomile is also known for its ability to calm nerves and promote healthier, more restful sleep. This herb has also been found to work as an anti-inflammatory that can soothe tense muscles and treat several inflammatory conditions of the skin, such as eczema, psoriasis, and even wounds that are slow to heal.
Flowers and plants do more than just enliven your garden and create lovely fragrance; they can also provide a host of benefits for your health. The next time you’re feeling a little under-the-weather, consider looking into natural plant remedies instead of reaching for an over-the-counter medication.
Special “Shout Out” to Jenn Johnson, author