Medicinal plants - A quick overview
In most Latin American countries traditions of indigenous people are preserved, it is common to resort to medicinal plants to relieve some ailments such as muscle pain, improve the functioning of an organ such as the kidneys or treat respiratory or digestive diseases.
Our popular wisdom does not come only from the contributions of the native people, but has been enriched with contributions from Asian and African culture.
Knowledge of the properties of medicinal plants has passed from generation to generation, many people prefer to turn to nature rather than medicines that can have harmful side effects for health.
Advantages of using plants with medicinal properties:
• They have less negative impact on the body.
• Are easily obtained in our gardens if climate and location allow us to grow them at home
• Can effectively treat common conditions without going to the doctor (if symptoms don’t go away after using natural remedies better go to the doctor)
• Its cost is much lower than that of conventional drugs.
• Reduces drug dependency after completion of treatment.
• May help to prevent some medical conditions. Medicinal plants are used not only as treatment but also as a resource to stay healthy
Disadvantages of using plants with medicinal properties:
• They do not always have the expected effect in a short time.
• Depending on the disease or pain to be treated, more powerful medications may be needed for a speedy recovery.
• Local governments are not very supportive of the development of this type of medicine.
Some plants with medicinal properties:
Cancla: has an antispasmodic effect on the digestive system, which helps relieve stomach pain. It has antimicrobial properties to fight infections.
Chamomile: has anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic and adjuvant properties, for the symptomatic treatment of digestive disorders.
Totumo: this fruit is rich in alkaloids and organic acids (citric and tartanic). It is also used to treat respiratory conditions (cough, asthma and bronchitis).
Oregano: has carminative, digestive, antioxidant, antiseptic and expectoral properties. This plant is used to treat sore throats, colds and respiratory problems.
Walnut: it has a large amount of vitamins and mineral salts, which allows treating mild diarrhea.
It is important to remember that the use of medicinal plants in children is not recommended, because it can be quite harmful to them. If you tend to resort to natural medicine tell us some of the plants you use and what are they used for so we can spread the wisdom of our ancestors.
