The use of medicinal herbs represents one of the oldest healing activities in the history of human well-being. Since ancient times, plants have been appreciated for their countless properties and therapeutic benefits.
Furthermore, especially in modern times, they are also used as natural cosmetics and as a precious source of ingredients to use in the kitchen. The research has continued for many years up to the present day.
Man has continued to discover countless plants to which he associates unique properties for his well-being. Let’s explore simples, curative preparation to feel good.
Contents
Simples: origins and phytotherapy
Phytotherapy is the use of medicinal herbs for therapeutic applications, utilizing preparations such as compresses, decoctions, ointments, and potions. Initially rooted in belief, phytotherapy has evolved into a scientific discipline, influencing traditional Chinese, Indian, and Western medicine through Greek and Roman practices.
Over time, phytotherapy has refined the classification of medicinal, spice, and aromatic plants, improving their use in medicine, cosmetics, and nutrition. This classification aids in cultivation, ensuring optimal growth conditions and higher yields of active ingredients.
Medicinal plants, known for their therapeutic properties and minimal side effects compared to conventional medicines, can be wild-harvested or cultivated. Cultivation allows for better environmental control, enhancing the quality and quantity of active ingredients.
Each plant requires specific growth methods, and cultivation durations vary, including perennial, annual, and biennial plants. Dried plants should be stored away from heat, humidity, and sunlight to preserve their properties.
The active ingredients for simples
Each plant has specific active ingredients that address particular disorders or pathologies. These ingredients are collectively known as phytocomplexes. Here are the main beneficial elements found in plants and herbs:
- Polyphenols: Powerful antioxidants that counteract cellular aging caused by free radicals. Tannins, a type of polyphenol, are used to treat wounds, facilitate tissue healing, and reduce gastrointestinal inflammation. They are extracted from leaves, bark, and roots.
- Alkaloids: Nitrogen-based compounds that treat various pathologies by acting on the nervous and muscular systems. Common alkaloids include caffeine, nicotine, morphine, and mescaline. They have potent stimulating effects and must be used carefully under medical supervision to avoid adverse interactions with other drugs. Plants rich in alkaloids include coffee, tobacco, and tea.
- Essential Oils: These stimulate the activity of the skin and mucous membranes, providing strength and resistance. They also have expectorant and fluidifying effects, aiding in respiratory system inflammation. Essential oils are found in mint, sage, mountain pine, anise, and fennel.
- Flavonoids: Similar to polyphenols, flavonoids act as natural antioxidants. They are abundant in ginseng, echinacea, licorice, and rhubarb. Flavonoids contain glycosides, which store simple and complex sugars.
- Glycosides: Compounds with both sugar and non-sugar groups, glycosides have anti-inflammatory properties, support cardiac muscle tone, and provide laxative effects.
The effectiveness of these active ingredients is enhanced when combined in a single compound or a galenic preparation.
What are the most used medicinal herbs for curative simples?
Let’s discover the benefits contained in the most commonly used medicinal plants found on the market.
Nature offers an unparalleled wealth of plants and herbs with beneficial effects on health.
Echinacea: Originating in North America, this perennial herb has immunostimulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. It’s used for boosting the immune system, treating wounds, and making decoctions for internal use.
Mallow: Known for its emollient and laxative properties, mallow is rich in mucilage and vitamins A, C, B1, and E. It’s a natural remedy for respiratory and digestive disorders and is also used in cooking.
Passionflower: This plant has anxiolytic and sedative properties, aiding in sleep, reducing menstrual pain, and preventing heart problems. It can be consumed as tea or tincture.
Centella Asiatica: Known for healing wounds and autoimmune dysfunctions, its leaves are used to improve blood circulation and prevent venous insufficiency and cramps.
Ginseng: Widely used in traditional Chinese medicine for its energizing properties, it stimulates the immune system and combats fatigue.
Marigold: Used in oils and creams for hydration, marigold alleviates menstrual and abdominal pain and soothes skin conditions like burns and redness.
Birch: Promotes diuresis, reducing renal and cardiac edema, and is used in cosmetics to counteract cellulite and excess liquids.
Eucalyptus: Its leaves treat bronchial catarrh, asthma, and colds. The essential oil has balsamic and expectorant properties.
Blueberry: The fruits reduce capillary fragility and vascular issues. Blueberry juice aids vision and protects eye capillaries.
Dandelion: Known for its purifying properties, it eliminates toxins and has a diuretic effect.
Valerian: Used for anxiety, insomnia, and convulsions, valerian is known for its sedative and relaxing properties.
Aconite: Used for its analgesic properties in homeopathy to treat inflammation, migraines, and tooth pain.
Fennel Seeds: Containing essential oils, vitamins, and fiber, fennel seeds reduce abdominal pain, promote digestion, and improve intestinal motility.
Hawthorn: An excellent anxiolytic and natural calmer, hawthorn dilates arteries to reduce blood pressure and protect the heart.
Licorice: Anti-inflammatory, expectorant, and digestive, licorice soothes the throat, promotes stomach protection, and increases blood pressure.
Ginkgo Biloba: Combats free radicals, promotes brain oxygenation and glucose transport, enhancing concentration and memory, and counteracting neurodegenerative diseases.
Conclusion
In conclusion, medicinal plants have always represented a valid aid in the treatment of various diseases in humans. Today more and more people prefer this type of natural treatments, replacing them with the current chemical synthesis products on the market.
However, it is important to remember that medicinal plants should always be administered following the advice of trained experts to avoid potential harmful effects caused by excessive or incorrect dosage.
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