The Ten Most Effective Medicinal Plants

Medicinal plants have been used for centuries to treat a wide variety of illnesses and disorders and to promote overall good health. While there are many medicinal plants that work well in treating illness, some are used more frequently because they've proven highly effective. It is important to consult your physician before using any natural remedy such as medicinal plants because they may interact with medications or pre-existing conditions.

Aloe Vera

• Many people grow aloe vera plants in their home gardens.

  Alternative Medicine Zone calls aloe vera one of the safest and most effective medicinal plants. It is used to treat minor burns, cuts, eczema, and to reduce inflammation. Aloe Vera juice can also be ingested to treat digestive problems such as constipation or poor appetite.

St. John's Wort

• St. John's Wort can be purchased in tablet, capsule, tincture or powder form.

  St. John's wort has been commonly used to treat anxiety disorders, but according to the University of Maryland Medical Clinic, it is also effective in treating a variety of other illnesses. It has antibacterial and antiviral properties, and is also used to treat cuts and burns because of its anti-inflammatory properties. It does interact with a variety of medication, causing dangerous side effects as a result, so St. John's wort should only be used with the approval and supervision of a physician.

Alfalfa

• Alfalfa is used in livestock feed because of it's effectiveness in improving digestion.

  Alfalfa is rich in minerals and nutrients. The National Library of Medicine says that alfalfa is used to treat nausea, kidney disorders such as pain and kidney stones, and can be effective in reducing cholesterol. It is available as seeds and sprouts, but you can eat the leaves as well.

Sage

• Sage is used in powder form, or as dried leaves in teas and as salves.

  Sage is not only a cooking spice, but a very useful medicinal herb. It aids in digestion, and in treating diarrhea and colds. Sage can be used as a salve for cuts and burns, and to reduce inflammation and swelling. This helpful herb has also been used to aid in reducing depression and menopausal symptoms.

Burdock

• Although the burrs from a burdock plant are annoying, it is very effective in treating skin irritation.

  Burdock, also called cocklebur, is a prickly plant that is used to treat poison ivy and poison oak. It is also used to treat skin irritations, acne, ringworm, insect bites and bruises.

Feverfew

• Feverfew is a pleasant addition to your garden, and has been proven highly effective against pain.

  Feverfew is commonly used to treat migraine headaches but is also an anti-inflammatory which can be used to treat arthritis, rheumatism and to relieve tension and anxiety because it is a natural serotonin inhibitor. Feverfew can also be used to reduce skin inflammation and bruising.

Tea Tree

• The tea tree plant provides oil that is used to effectively treat acne, infections, warts, insect bites, and minor burns. Many over-the-counter products and cosmetics include tea tree oil for its medicinal properties.

Peppermint

• Peppermint is widely used for its flavor.

  Peppermint is a pleasant-smelling plant that has been used for centuries because of its effectiveness. It is rich in Vitamins A and C and aids in treating symptoms such as stomach irritation and fever.

Echinacea

• Echinacea, when used properly, can be highly effective in boosting immunity.

  Echinacea is an herbaceous plant that grows in a variety of species. It is commonly used to fight against colds, but is only effective in this way when used properly. The University of Maryland Medical Center advises that echinacea should be taken according to the label's dosage recommendations as soon as symptoms of cold or flu occur. You should continue the dosage three times daily for seven to 10 days to achieve optimal immune system stimulation. Echinacea is also used to treat allergies, wounds, insect bites and stings, as well as some snake bites.

Ginseng

• Ginseng promotes overall good health.

  Ginseng is a common ingredient in energy drinks to provide stamina. It is used more to promote overall health than to treat specific ailments. The root of the ginseng plant is used to relax the nervous system and to help reduce cholesterol and improve immune function.