Have you heard a lot about the benefits of herbs and medicinal plants, but digging underground and studying medical papers isn’t for you? Don’t worry: We’ve taken care of that by compiling a list of the most useful herbs that might not cure all of your ailments, but will certainly help your body get stronger. But don’t forget to consult an expert before using it.
But most of these plants also have many beneficial properties, which is why they need to be introduced into the diet. As leading manufacturers of herbal products, many companies recognize the importance of utilizing the inherent benefits of these plants to create high-quality supplements that meet your health needs.
Nearly every herb featured below appears regularly in my diet.
This article is for reference only. Please consult an expert/doctor before applying suggestions!
Here is the list of the most beneficial herbs for your health
1. Ginko biloba
We are sure you have heard of this plant more than once. But, like popular people, he was surrounded by rumors and speculation, and it was difficult to understand the nature of it. So first things first.
The tree dates back to the distant Mesozoic Era, and its name, translated from Latin, sounds like “Ginkgo.” The chemical composition of leaf-like needles contains more than 100 active substances. So it’s no surprise that these trees survived the nuclear attack on Hiroshima.
The main beneficial property is improved blood flow, so it is widely used in the prevention of vision problems, neurological disorders, nootropic and anti-varicose vein courses. Ginkgo biloba promotes a general increase in vascular tone, has a vasodilatory effect, and reduces capillary permeability. Another beneficial property is its antioxidant effect, which prevents oxidative damage to body cells.
2. Echinacea
Echinacea extract strengthens the immune system and relieves viral infections, including flu and colds. The effectiveness of echinacea preparations varies depending on the ingredients. Echinacea is contraindicated in autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and multiple sclerosis.
3. Sage
The beneficial properties of sage have been known since ancient Greek times, and its name means “happiness and health.” Plants cultivated by man will be more beneficial because all the most valuable things are contained in the young leaves and inflorescences. In nature, sage grows to the size of a shrub. Therefore, the concentration of nutrients in the buds becomes smaller due to the larger area.
4. Ivan-tea
In pre-revolutionary times, weed was the most important component of exports to Europe. The British spoke highly of the taste of this product, preferring it to tea grown in Indian tea gardens. No, this is not tea in the traditional sense, but unlike tea leaves, it does not contain caffeine and, therefore, there are no contraindications associated with its presence.
Ivan tea contains a lot of vitamin C – 300 mg per 100g (compared to lemon only 40 to 70 mg per 100g). This is due to its antioxidant properties that strengthen the immune system. It is also rich in mineral components that contribute to the product’s diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties. The presence of polysaccharides makes it useful in treating digestive problems, while polyphenols act as powerful antiseptics.
5. Eleutherococcus
Eleutherococcus grows in countries in the Far East. In Russia, it is found in Primorye and Khabarovsk Krai, Sakhalin Island, and Amur Oblast. The plant is considered a natural adaptogen: it increases the body’s non-specific resistance to various harmful effects of chemical and biological nature.
The chemical composition is rich in vitamins E, D, A, C, B1, and B, fats and essential oils, resins, glucose, minerals, anthocyanins, gums, and beta-carotene. Its composition and properties are similar to ginseng. Hence the name – “Siberian ginseng”. The eleutheroside contained in the composition helps improve metabolism, affects the breakdown of fats and the conversion of carbohydrates into energy, reduces the concentration of “bad cholesterol” and normalizes the level of hemoglobin in the blood. But do not forget that the berries of this plant are poisonous and cannot be collected.
The plant is suitable for relieving eye fatigue after working for hours in front of a monitor. Helps cope with increased mental and physical stress. Acts as an excellent immune modulator and accelerates tissue healing. It is also widely used in sports to improve endurance and speed up the recovery process.