Different Medicinal Plants

According to Colorado State University, herbal remedies are the most popular form of alternative therapy for both adults and children. Various cultures have traditionally used a number of plants to treat various ailments. The effectiveness of such treatment is being confirmed by ongoing scientific studies. However, many botanical extracts have side effects. Additionally, there are dangers of some botanical compounds interacting with specific medicines or other food products. Hence, it is important to be sure that botanical products are safe before consuming them.

Echinacea

• Echinacea is a perennial herb that has been popularly used by Native Americans for its medicinal properties. It is native to the midwestern regions of North America and bears pink or purple flowers. Compounds in Echinacea such as alkamides, volatile oils, flavonoids, polysaccharides and glycoproteins strengthen the immune system; heal wounds; treat urinary tract infections, vaginal yeast infections, athlete's foot and hay fever; and reduce the duration of symptoms of cold and flu. Common side effects of products of this plant include nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting and allergic reactions in those who are sensitive to the daisy/aster family.

Gingko Biloba

• Gingko biloba is the oldest living tree species. It is a hardy species, which can grow as tall as 120 feet. It contains active ingredients such as flavonoids and terpenoids that give the tree its medicinal properties. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, Gingko biloba is effective in treating dementia and relieves symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. It has also been found to improve vision in those with glaucoma, reduce premenstrual syndrome symptoms, promote blood circulation and inhibit retinal problems. Common side effects of consuming gingko biloba products are gastrointestinal problems, headaches, constipation and spontaneous bleeding.

Ginseng

• There are two varieties of ginseng plant -- American ginseng, which is native to America, and Asian ginseng, which is native to China and Korea. Both of these plants belong to the genus Panax and have similar chemical make-up. Active ingredients of American ginseng are ginsenosides and polysaccharide glycans. In addition to ginsenosides, Asian ginseng also contains glycans, maltol, vitamin B, flavonoids and volatile oil. Asian ginseng improves the immune system, cardiovascular health, cognitive abilities and the body's capability to deal with stress. Research has shown that American Ginseng lowers blood sugar levels in people suffering from type 2 diabetes, arrests tumor growth, aids in recovery from cold and strengthens the immune system.

Garlic

• Garlic is a perennial herb, which is native to central Asia. The plant is a member of the lily family and has been traditionally used as a spice and medicine. Allicin, the main medicinal compound in garlic, has antibacterial and antifungal properties. Garlic is effective in treating coughs, throat irritations and upper respiratory tract infections. It also regulates blood sugar levels in diabetics, lowers blood pressure, reduces cholesterol levels, and cures toothaches and warts. However, garlic may also cause stomach irritation, heart burns and flatulence.