The 6 Best Medicinal Plants With Scientifically Proven Benefits

Various scientific studies have confirmed the medicinal properties of some plants. That is why they are now considered to be a remedy for some health problems. Do you already know her

There are a variety of medicinal plants with scientifically proven benefits. That is, their components and properties have been studied by experts who found that they can be used as adjuvants in the treatment of some diseases.

As published in an article in the Journal of Advanced Pharmaceutical Technology & Research , a wide variety of drugs are essentially made from extracts of plant origin. However, there are also people who appreciate the uses of plants in their natural form. Find out here what exactly they are!

Medicinal plants with scientifically proven benefits

Traditionally , mankind has used plants to treat the symptoms of various diseases since ancient times. As a result, scientific studies have been carried out over time that have made it possible to confirm or disprove the properties ascribed to them.

Research has also helped determine what doses they are safe at, which of them can cause side effects, and in which situations they should not be used. The list is quite extensive, so in the following we limit ourselves to the 6 most important medicinal plants with scientifically proven benefits.

1. Chamomile

Chamomile is a medicinal plant with many uses. As an article published in Molecular Medicine Reports states, their primary uses are in relieving anxiety, stress, and stomach problems. However, some people also use them for pain and skin problems.

This plant is known for its small, daisy-like flowers. They are usually found in two varieties: the “real chamomile” (also called “German chamomile”) and the “Roman chamomile”. It is often used as a tea, but is also available in essential oils and extracts, as well as in other dosage forms.

An article published in the Electronic Physician Journal lists it as a “multi-purpose plant” because it has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antidepressant, and anti-diabetic properties, to be used against diarrhea, and to protect the liver. Some of their uses are:

• Osteoarthritis in the knee
• Ulcerative colitis
• Premenstrual syndrome
• Gastrointestinal disorders
• Fears and stress

Does it cause side effects? Are there any contraindications? It is considered safe for most healthy adults. However, experts advise against excessive use. In addition, there have been reports of allergic reactions and interactions with anticoagulants.

2. Lavender

Lavender is one of the most famous and widely used medicinal plants with research proven benefits. In particular, it is valued for its anxiolytic effect, which makes it possible to reduce symptoms of stress and anxiety. A study published in the journal Mental Health Clinician confirms these properties and finds it to be very effective and safe.

Its natural oils and herbal dosage forms support the treatment of anxiety disorders without causing addiction or significant side effects. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has even approved its use for this purpose.

Other possible uses are as follows:

• Antibacterial and antifungal agent
• Relaxants for the smooth muscles (carminative)

• Sedative and antidepressant
• Skin soothing agent for burns and insect bites

3. Coneflower (Echinacea)

Coneflower is a well-known remedy. In addition to the showy purple flowers, this plant is used in the form of teas, juices, and extracts to strengthen the immune system and improve health in general.

For example, a study in the journal Pharmacognosy Reviews highlights that it is an herb with immune-stimulating and anti-inflammatory properties.

More specifically , it is used in the treatment of flu, colds and other respiratory diseases. It also works as a pain reliever for toothache, intestinal problems, skin diseases and arthritis, among other things.

As for their possible side effects, there is some controversy. While some studies have concluded that it is safe to use, others have found that it can cause undesirable reactions such as abdominal pain and allergies. Use echinacea carefully.

4. Ginkgo

Within the list of medicinal plants with scientifically proven effects , ginkgo is characterized by its diverse medicinal uses. Ginkgo is a widely used herb in oriental medicine that can be purchased in capsule and tablet form, extract and as leaves.

Recent research, including one published in Aging and Disease , shows that this plant has potential as an ally in the prevention of age-related disorders. In particular, ginkgo appears to support brain health by lowering the risk of developing dementia.

Additionally, a study that appeared in Drug Design, Development and Therapy found that ginkgo also contains components that help treat type 2 diabetes. However, more studies are needed to better assess its safety and effectiveness.

So far, the following possible side effects have been identified:

• Impairment of liver function which requires control of liver enzymes.
• Interactions with anticoagulant drugs and other drugs.
• Its seeds are not to be consumed as they are poisonous.
• Researchers link long-term overdose to an increased risk of thyroid problems and liver cancer (seen in rats).
• In some people, it causes headaches, indigestion, dizziness, or allergic reactions.

5. St. John’s wort

St. John’s wort is also known as “Hypericum”. It is one of the medicinal plants with a calming effect as it has antidepressant and anxiolytic functions. In particular, it contains hypericin and hyperforin, as described in an article published in Systematic Reviews .

These substances are active ingredients with antidepressant potential that, among other things, promote the relief of anxiety. It also has an antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effect and is used for menopausal symptoms. Some of its side effects are as follows:

• Drug interaction
• Restlessness
• Burning sensation and tingling sensation
• Dizziness
• Photosensitivity
• irritability
• Stomach discomfort

6. Peppermint

When we talk about the best medicinal plants with scientific evidence, we cannot leave out the peppermint. Because of its properties, it is one of the most widely used and widely used herbal ingredients around the world.

It is used in particular to relieve complaints in the digestive system, headaches and respiratory diseases.

In this regard, a scientific article published in the journal Phytotherapy Research states that mint leaves contain phenolic components, such as rosmarinic acid and various flavonoids, which ingestion help maintain good health. In general, mint has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, analgesic and immunomodulatory effects.

Their moderate use is safe for most healthy adults. However, in excess it can be irritating. In addition , this plant can interact with some medicines ; so if you are under medication, it is best to consult your doctor before trying mint as a remedy.

Medicinal plants with scientifically proven benefits should be used with caution

While science has confirmed many of the properties of the above mentioned plants, it does not mean that they can be used as a first option for disease treatment. Most of the time, they’re just a supplement to help relieve the symptoms of certain medical conditions.

In fact, their effects are more temporary and not always what the person expects. Even so, the findings suggest that they can be helpful for many patients. That is why it is worth trying them out if there are no contraindications.