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Uses of Medicinal Plants for Treatment

Since before the days of Aristotle and Hippocrates people have been using medicinal plants for treatment of their ailments. Medicinal plants contain active compounds that affect the body. All parts of the plant can be used for medicine: bark, flowers, leaves, seeds and roots. When preparing medicinal plants for treatment, follow the remedy closely and use the part of the plant that is recommended. Medicinal plants come in different forms for treatment. Here is an informative explanation of tinctures, teas and poultices and how to make and use them.

  1. Tinctures

    • One way to ingest medicinal plants for treatment is by using a tincture. Tinctures are alcohol-, vinegar- or glycerin-based and come in small glass bottles. The cap of the bottle has an eye dropper built in and dosages are measured in drops. To make a tincture, place pulverized material in a jar and cover with liquid. Let the mixture steep for one month and shake the jar one to three times a day. Strain using cheese cloth and place in the bottle. Tinctures have long shelf lives of up to two years or more.

    Teas and Infusions

    • Infusions and teas are a very common way to use medicinal plants for treatment. Drinking medicinal tea is an easy and soothing way to use these plants. Sometimes teas are also used topically or in an enema. You can make a healing tea from any part of the plant. For each cup of water, add one teaspoon of the fresh or dry part of the plant. Place the boiling water into a container that is not plastic or metal, add the medicinal plant and let it steep for up to 15 minutes. If you have a recipe for the remedy, follow those directions. Medicinal teas have a short shelf life and any leftover tea can be stored in the refrigerator for 24 hours.

    Poultice

    • A poultice made of medicinal plants is used topically for treatment so the active compounds can get into your body through the skin. Take the recommended medicinal plant and pulverize it into a texture that is as close to powder as possible. Add the recommended liquid and create a paste. The paste is then placed on the skin for the specified amount of time. Sometimes it is recommended to first place cheese cloth over the area and then place the paste on top, covered by another layer of cheese cloth or other fabric.

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