As much as medications and supplements can be helpful, it’s nice to have some everyday natural remedies in our health arsenal. Here are six common plants that known for their healing powers.
RELATED: 5 essential superfoods a healthy over-40 body
- Basil
Basil is the anti-inflammatory rock star of herbs. The active ingredients, called volatile oils, are what give basil its strong flavor and aroma, and they’re rich in the antioxidants and phytochemicals that modern science has found can heal and prevent disease.
A component of basil called eugenol inhibits the activity of an enzyme in the body that over-the-counter anti-inflammatories, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, also block. Two forms of basil used in Ayurvedic medicine, holy basil and hoary basil, were scientifically shown to reduce acute inflammation and swelling. The more common variety, sweet basil, has eugenol in lower levels.
- Dandelion
“Dandelions have a ton of healing properties. The flowers are rich in lutein, which is great for your eyes,” said Canadian herbalist Nancy Smithers. The leaves can be applied externally to heal wounds and also act as a diuretic.
Young dandelion greens can be used in salads, are rich in antioxidants, iron, and vitamin K. One of the best ways to take dandelion is as a tea.
- Mint
In addition to sweetening your breath, the menthol in peppermint leaves relaxes the “smooth” muscles of the stomach and intestines, allowing better and more effective digestion. Numerous studies have found that peppermint in various forms, including tea, significantly squelches the pain, gas and constipation of indigestion. Healing effects come from the oil in the leaves.
RELATED: Best foods for men’s peak sexual health
- Rosemary
Research has found that the mere smell of rosemary may improve cognition (the ability to use bits of information rapidly) and short-term memory.
Rosemary oil also can boost your mood and reduce anxiety, according to Mark Blumenthal of the American Botanical Council. “These little leaves are also packed with nutrients. Nearly a day’s worth of vitamin A is packed into 100 grams of fresh rosemary, and it’s rich in fiber, vitamins C and B6, calcium and iron.
RELATED: His night to cook: Foolproof herbed grilled chicken recipe
- Tarragon
Folk medicine has prescribed chewing the leaves for a toothache and to fight infection. Recent research is finding that tarragon may help manage diabetes and be useful in the treatment of varicose veins and hemorrhoids.
Curated article from the LA Times
