Examples of Medicinal Plants

The complex chemical compounds in drugs produced by pharmaceutical companies aren't always necessary. Many plants, some of which commonly exist in yards and gardens, can go toward treating an array of medical problems, from high blood pressure to Alzheimer's disease to stomach aches.

Ginseng

• The ginseng plant, with its abilities to bolster immune systems and boost energy, has become the most widely used medicinal plant in the world, according to the U.S. National Park Service. The plant improves nervous systems, hormone balances, blood sugar levels and it enhances other basic body functions. Commercial growers mostly cultivate the plant, but it grows naturally in the U.S.' eastern hardwood forests. American ginseng's relative, the Asian ginseng, has been in human use for as much as 5,000 years. The plant received its genus name, Panax, from "pas," Greek for "all," and "akos," or "cure." The name came from Panacea, a Greek goddess who could heal all ailments.

Bloodroot

• Bloodroot has found its way into several medicinal uses, mainly for throat and bronchial problems. Pharmaceutical companies also mix the plant in small doses with other substances to treat heart problems and migraines. If bloodroot is converted to a paste, it can be used for skin diseases or warts. It is also in some toothpastes and mouthwashes because it can prevent plaque build-up. Bloodroot, which releases a red juice from its roots, grows throughout eastern North America. It grows in shaded and moist wooded areas. Historically, the plant saw heavy use from Native American culture as both a medicine and face paint.

Dandelion

• Commonly considered a weed, dandelions have bacteria-fighting properties that can treat wounds. People who consume it can also treat kidney, urinary and gall bladder disorders, as well as gallstones, jaundice, high blood pressure and several other blood and kidney conditions. Along with its medicinal uses, the dandelion has made its way into the foods of many world cultures. Now widespread throughout North American, researchers theorizes it came from Europe or Asia, but little is known about its origins.

Ginkgo

• Researchers believe the Ginkgo Biloba, a native of eastern China, is the oldest known tree species in the world, dating back 300 million years. People in China have used the plant and its extracts for more than 5,000 years. Along with containing immune system-boosting antioxidants, medicinal uses include treatments for heart and kidney disorders and Alzheimer's. The plant can also help improve people's ability to focus because it helps the body produce more energy and it increases brain metabolism.

Wild Carrot

• Also considered a nuisance like dandelion, wild carrots have long been used for their medicinal properties. Chemicals found in wild carrots, also known as Queen Anne's lace, go toward an array of treatments, from anti-viral to anti-hangover to fertility enhancement to Parkinson's Disease prevention. The plants can soothe stomach conditions, as well as treat liver, kidney and bladder problems. The plant's leaves have large amounts of porphyrins, making it a natural afrodisiac.