It is true that we had enough reasons to embrace the present day pharmaceutical science! The field has served us immensely by the discovery of lifesaving drugs. But can we totally ignore the age-old natural remedies which had been used by our grandparents since their times? We possibly cannot afford to forget our roots! Some of the most widely used drugs are of herbal origin. For example, the compound found in willow tree appears in the synthetic form as the OTC drug, Aspirin. The most common natural healers used over these years include:
- Lemon Balm: It forms a lemon-flavored member of the mint family. Since the old days it has been used to treat anxiety and to improve conditions of memory, sleep and digestion. A tea made with lemon balm can gift us a sound sleep. This in turn allows us to stay focused on the following day. Research indicates that a four-week session aromatherapy with lemon balm can reduce agitation in people affected with dementia. It is also believed as a remedy for overactive thyroid. Latest studies have pointed out that lemon balm creams are quite effective in the healing of oral herpes sores. It also controls the frequency of outbreaks.
- Onion: Latest studies have confirmed the healing functions of onions which have been used as an age-old remedy for diabetes. Recent studies have shown that onions can fight the symptoms of diabetes and can give protection against cardiovascular problems. Onions contain a Flavonoid called Quercetin which is believed to be a remedy for stomach ulcers and the cancers of the colon, esophagus and breast. Onions also show anti-inflammatory property and hence can reduce swellings associated with allergies.
- Cayenne Peppers: Cayenne peppers, also called chiles, have been used by the folk medicine practitioners for the treatment of pain over the ages. The ingredient in Cayenne pepper which acts as pain relief is Capsaicin. It has been proved to be very effective in the treatment of pains caused by surgery and arthritis. Capsaicin works by compressing down the chemical messengers which send the pain sensation to the brain. Latest studies claim that the spice can be used in weight control. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition published a study in 2009 and the study claimed that capsaicin related compounds can help people shed their belly fat. The spice is also believed to be an effective remedy in the control of blood sugar. The European Journal of Nutrition reported a study conducted in 2009. Individuals who included capsaicin in their lunch, observed an increase in the level of a sugar-regulating hormone and a fall in the level of ghrelin, the hormone that regulates hunger.
- Plantain: This oval-leafed plant which grows all over the world is a natural remedy for skin diseases. It is a normal practice of the Native Americans to apply plantain poultices to wounds, burns and insect bites. The plant shows anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial actions and that is why, it is used to treat skin problems. The plant has a soothing effect which heals the skin internally. Some laxatives make use of Psyllium, the seed of one form of plantain.
- Parsley: According to the age-old traditions, the roots of Parsley have been used in the treatment of diseases of the urinary tract. Modern day studies have confirmed that the parsley roots increase the urine output. The plant has even been approved in the treatment of cystitis and other disorders of the urinary tract by the German Commission E. Further, the leaves of Parsley act as excellent breath fresheners and we can even find enough confidence of having a lot of raw onions if we have Parsley leaves in hand!
- Hawthorne: Herbalists across the world have been using the flowers, berries and leaves of Hawthorne to improve cardiovascular health. Herbalists recommend the intake of the shrub when the heart muscles turn flabby. The shrub works by acting on the heart muscles. Studies of the modern era have proved that the antioxidants present in Hawthorne can bring about a relaxation of the muscles of the arterial walls and can boost up the flow of blood to the heart. This would in turn, prevent the development of coronary artery disease. Studies also claim that Hawthorne is an effective remedy for other heart problems like the congestive heart failure. Research has claimed that the extract of Hawthorne can address problems like shortness of breath in cardiac patients. It is also believed to boost up the heart's tolerance for exercise.
Ultimately we can declare proudly to the world that our forefathers were right in embracing the proper natural measures for treating different health conditions. Even today, we are getting benefitted by the natural remedies without our proper knowledge! Quinine, used to treat Malaria, has its source in Cinchona tree! Nature is everywhere and we staying so close to it!
