The 50 best medicinal plants, their effects and contraindications

Since ancient times, when medical knowledge about how our body works was very limited compared to that of nowadays, different peoples used different remedies to alleviate the discomfort, pain or symptoms of some diseases.

A large part of them were based on the use of the properties of medicinal plants, the knowledge of which allowed in many cases to alleviate a large number of ailments.

The different plants considered medicinal have continued to be used since then, even today. However, it is necessary to take into account what effects they have on the body and how to use them, as well as the fact that their healing potential is limited. Throughout this article we are going to show you some of the medicinal plants that exist and some of their properties.

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What is a medicinal plant?

We give the name of medicinal plant to all that plant that has positive properties that they can be used either directly or macerated or infused in order to contribute to a recovery or improvement of the state of health of a subject with some type of disease.

The use of these substances has been known since ancient times, being named in the Ebers papyrus (Egypt, around 1550 BC. C) more than half a thousand medicinal plants. And with the passage of time and the observation of new species and varieties, we can actually find many more.

The knowledge regarding what they were used for and how to use them has been passed from generation to generation and has been modernized little by little until today. In fact, although the use of medicinal plants seems something of the past, the truth is that according to the WHO the percentage of the population that uses some type of medicinal herb is quite high. In many cases we do not even realize it, such as when we take chamomile when our stomach hurts or we take a lime to relax.

Although as a general rule the use of these plants can be beneficial, the truth is that it must be taken into account that they have its limitations: often the concentration of active ingredients is very low and their effects are more limited than others alternatives. In addition, Caution should be exercised with possible interactions when consumed with drugs (For example, you have to consult your doctor if we use St. John's wort and antidepressants).

The use of medicinal plants is not specially regulated either, which can lead to misuses and possible drug interactions and other contraindications not taken into account. And finally, and this is something that we have commented previously, the use of medicinal plants does not have a purely curative objective: it should not replace the consultation of the doctor or the taking of medication.

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50 medicinal plants (and their benefits)

As we have said, there is a very wide variety of medicinal plants that have interesting properties and can help us to alleviate or prevent different problems.

Below and as an example, we show you a score of the best known. Notably many of them may have contraindicationsIt is advisable to consult a professional before taking them.

1. Chamomile

Chamomile is one of the medicinal plants best known for the properties of its flower. Its effects are especially relevant in the treatment of gastrointestinal complaints.

In addition to this, it has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and relaxing effects. It is used in gastrointestinal and muscle pain, cramps and headaches, eczema, inflammation of the gums, wounds and sinusitis. It also lowers cholesterol and appears to have anticancer properties.

2. Aloe vera

Another of the best known medicinal plants is Aloe Vera. It is a well-known plant with anti-inflammatory capacity and is used in various personal hygiene products due to its favoring action for skin regeneration. Helps to improve stains, burns and wounds.

Also in some foods: eaten, improves intestinal function and strengthens the immune system.

3. Garlic

One of the plants that we use the most in the kitchen is also one of the best-known medicinal plants. Garlic is a powerful strengthener of the immune system and has effects that promote efficient blood circulation (it is anticoagulant), in addition to being antibacterial and antibiotic and having antioxidant properties.

Common problems such as hypertension or the presence of infections are some of the circumstances in which its ingested use can be beneficial. Being an antioxidant, it also reduces the rate of cellular aging.

4. Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus is another of the best-known medicinal plants, especially with regard to its action against respiratory diseases. Asthma, bronchitis or flu are some of the typical problems in which it is used. It also has antimicrobial capabilities and facilitates the secretion of fluids such as mucus (being a powerful expectorant).

Finally also has effects on lowering blood sugar level, something that can be useful for the diabetic population. It is used in food, medicinal products or even in body hygiene products.

5. Horse tail

This plant, specifically its stem, is especially known to those with cystitis or other urinary tract infections. It also has positive effects on skin and nails, being a good cell regenerator and also strengthening the bones. Rich in silicon and highly diuretic and purifying, it helps eliminate toxins. It has astringent properties that help control bleeding.

6. Hypericum

Also called St. John's wort. This medicinal plant has different properties, but the fact that it has antidepressant properties stands out (in this sense, it is requires caution if combined with antidepressants, and its consumption is not recommended for more than six months), blocking the reuptake of monoamines.

It has also been useful in anxiety problems and insomnia, and improving menstrual flow alterations. It is also known for its analgesic and regulating capacity for heartburn, as well as its role as help to remedy diarrhea and vomiting. Likewise, it has been seen in animals that St. John's wort extracts could help improve insulin resistance.

7. Ginger

This spice is very useful, possessing multiple properties that make it an increasingly relevant medicinal plant. In addition to antibacterial, antiviral and antiparasitic properties, it has been observed that it has anti-inflammatory and antiemetic effects (reduces nausea and vomiting).

Digestive problems, fatigue, headaches and menstrual cramps are some of the problems in which it has been effective.

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8. Thyme

Thyme has antioxidant and antiseptic properties. Rich in flavonoids, vitamin C, iron and magnesium. Stimulates the appetite and is also used as an expectorant. Its antiseptic action meant that in ancient times it was used to treat wounds. It is also good for toning the skin and hair.

9. Lavender

Lavender has relaxing properties, being useful for stressful situations and insomnia. In addition, it has healing, analgesic and promoting properties of circulation and the proper functioning of the respiratory system. It also has properties that improve digestion and the secretion of gastric juices.

10. Linden

Another highly known medicinal plant with relaxing properties is linden. Whether in flower or infusion form, it is widely used to decrease the level of stress and anxiety and to relax the body. It also facilitates sleep and is diuretic, as well as having antispasmodic properties. It also increases the excretion of toxins through sweat (which also enhances).

11. Dandelion

The dandelion It is a very nutritious plant (it is proposed that it may have more iron even than products such as spinach) and with multiple medicinal properties. Especially indicated for liver and kidney problems (for example stones or grits), it improves diuresis and detoxification of the body, as well as having stimulating properties.

However, is contraindicated for pregnant women and people who suffer Bipolar disorder and are medicated with lithium salts, in addition to which it can have interactions with other drugs.

12. Ginkgo biloba

The leaves of this plant appear to have positive properties when it comes to stimulating cognitive performance. It is said that it improves memory and concentration, although the consensus is not as wide as it is believed. Also it is antioxidant, and improves blood circulation.

It also has contraindications, especially when taking anticoagulants or other products that already facilitate blood flow.

13. Mate

The plant with which the well-known Argentine drink is made is also very positive for health. We are facing a powerful antioxidant that also improves the immune system. It also has stimulating effects, like tea or coffee, and helps lower cholesterol. It favors physical and mental activity, and also it's diuretic.

14. Oregano

Oregano is an old acquaintance of our kitchens, traditionally highly valued and also has great medicinal properties. Especially known for its antioxidant action, it also has antifungal, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties.

Cramps, headaches, stomach and molar pains and respiratory problems can benefit from its consumption either ingested or in tea.

15. Passionflower

It is a plant that has soothing properties. Lowers blood pressure and lowers heart rate. In addition to cardiovascular problems, it is useful in treating sleep problems. It has mild bronchodilator and antispasmodic properties.

It is analgesic and also helps to calm gastrointestinal problems. In other uses can be used to treat burns and inflammations.

16. Willow bark

Not only spices, flowers and roots have medicinal properties, but elements such as willow bark can also serve to alleviate certain ills. The extract of this bark is useful as an anti-inflammatory. It has also been found useful for weight loss, headache treatment (in fact, its active ingredient is salicylic acid, like aspirin), arthritis and bone pain.

As with aspirin, however, this plant may have contraindications (not It is recommended for children, adolescents or nursing mothers, or for those who consume anticoagulants). It is also used to cure skin problems, corns and warts.

17. Agave

The agave also has medicinal properties. Specifically, its use in the healing of wounds and sores stands out., and can be used as a disinfectant (although misused it could become poisonous). Its sap, in addition to being a possible antiseptic, is useful for stimulating the intestinal flora and reducing cholesterol and triglycerides.

Some research shows that it favors bone calcification and the regulation of production insulin (with which diabetics and people with bone problems could benefit from this plant). In his time it was used to try to treat syphilis, jaundice or tuberculosis. However, this plant also has contraindications and can cause dermatitis.

18. Blueberry

Blueberries also have medicinal properties. Its fruit is not only edible but is also a powerful antioxidant, which is also a diuretic and beneficial in the prevention of urinary and kidney problems. Antibacterial, helps to treat infections. It is also astringent.

It has positive effects on sight and favors the repair of retinal cells. In addition, it is good for circulation and for the treatment of ulcers and eczema. And not only its fruits but also its leaves can be used: it has been observed that they have a hypoglycemic action, reducing blood sugar (something useful for diabetics).

19. Holly

Some varieties of this plant have been used to treat a large number of problems, from to lower the fever even as a purgative, passing through being an element that contributes to combat the jaundice. Has diuretic and relaxing effects, in addition to lowering blood pressure and helping to treat digestive problems.

20. Elderflower

This beautiful flower has been used as a remedy to treat different problems. With antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as diuretics and laxatives, it has been used to treat flu-like episodes and reduce coughs and problems with the mucous membranes. It also appears to lower cholesterol and lower blood sugar levels.

21. Yucca

This perennial shrub native to certain central regions of South America, in tropical parts. What makes it special is that its roots are very rich in starches and help increase metabolic rate and lose weight, although it is very important to combine it with foods rich in macronutrients, since this ingredient does not provide them.

It must be taken into account that the constant consumption of large amounts of cassava with a deficiency of vitamins and minerals can cause diseases, so it is better to ration it sensibly.

22. Ginseng

This plant is used as an ingredient for infusions that can be used to provide energy and keep people active. In addition, it reduces blood pressure and strengthens the immune system, by enhancing the production of lymphocytes.

23. Pennyroyal mint

Pennyroyal has long been used for its ability to increase appetite and improve the assimilation of nutrients by the body, which improves the process of digestion.

24. Chamomile

Chamomile is very useful to end heartburn, among other things. However, caution must be exercised with its consumption, since it is contraindicated for pregnant women given the risk that it will facilitate an abortion.

25. Nettle

Nettle is a plant with a bad reputation because its leaves produce hives, but beyond this annoying characteristic we can find medicinal properties. Specifically, nettle has the ability to act as a vasoconstrictor, which is useful in cases where bleeding needs to be stopped.

On the other hand, as it contains a lot of iron, it can also be used to combat anemia.

26. Foxglove

This plant is rich in digoxin and digitoxin, which exert a diuretic effect and promote blood circulation.

27. Sandalwood

Its antiseptic properties based on sandalwood make the essential oils of this plant a good aid to disinfect wounds. In addition, it is an effective diuretic.

28. Poppy

Poppy is an herb that grows naturally in a wide variety of environments, and for millennia it has been exploited as an ingredient for its narcotic properties against pain. These substances have served as the basis for developing psychoactive agents used in codeine and morphine, for example.

29. Dill

Dill seeds have been used for medicinal purposes since ancient times, especially against pain associated with menstruation (dysmenorrhea) and spasms.

It is normally consumed in the form of an infusion, although on occasions it has also been used to create mixtures applied to wounds and burns and to promote the regeneration of the skin and the cleaning of the exposed area.

30. Celery

Celery is a common ingredient when preparing well-known dishes in the kitchen, but it can also be considered a member of the group of medicinal plants. This vegetable it is used as a digestive and laxative, due to its high fiber content. The diuretic effects of this thick-stemmed vegetable are also well known.

31. Wormwood

Wormwood, also known as holy herb or bitter mugwort, is a well-known medicinal plant on all continents and has been used for thousands of years.

Specific, used to whet the appetite (as appetitive), and in some cases to eliminate parasitic infestations. In addition, it is an ingredient used in alcoholic beverages such as absinthe.

32. Kava

Kava is a medicinal plant native to Polynesia. Its roots are used especially for make mixtures with anesthetic and sedative effects, and oral consumption.

Of course, the way in which this plant affects us depends on the type of strain from which the plant to be used comes from, since there is a large variety of groups planted in very different contexts and from artificial selection have given way to genetically variants different.

33. Rue

Rue is a shrub-like plant with leaves from which it is possible to make essential oils used in traditional medicine. Specifically, this substance is used as an antispasmodic and sedative.

34. Calendula

Calendula is another of the medicinal plants that, beyond home remedies, has also been used in cooking as another ingredient. Its flower is popular for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties, so it applies to wounds.

35. Hip

Rose hip is used to relieve pain related to ailments such as arthritis and certain infections. In addition, it is one of the richest plants in vitamin C, so that those who have deficiencies in this sense can incorporate it into their diet in the form of infusions, jams or soups.

36. Water liana

The water liana (Cissus verticillata) is a climbing plant from areas of Central America, Colombia and Venezuela. It is used as an anticonvulsant and to treat bleeding.

37. Elm

The bark of this tree is used for its antibacterial properties, and also as a dietary supplement, as well as against throat irritation (It generates a mucosa that protects the tissue).

38. Fennel

Fennel is a common medicinal plant in Mediterranean ecosystems. It is appreciated for its diuretic properties and for promoting the expulsion of gases and digestion.

39. Lemongrass

Lemongrass (Melissa officinalis), lemon balm or lemon leaf is a perennial plant used in infusions for promote a state of relaxation. It is a pain reliever known for many centuries.

40. Castor bean

Castor oil is a well-known purgative, and is consumed orally despite its unpleasant taste. Of course, its preparation is very dangerous because it uses seeds that contain a powerful poison. If in the elaboration it is not known to eliminate these toxic components, it is necessary to avoid using it as a homemade ingredient.

41. Konjac

The konjac (Amorphophallus konjac), also known as devil's tongue, is a plant native to China and Southeast Asia that due to its high concentration of fiber it is used as a dietary. It is very common to use it to make gelatin substituting products of animal origin.

42. Wild lettuce

Wild lettuce (Lactuca virosa) is a plant with psychoactive properties that is used as a sedative in some contexts. However, its use at home is not recommended, and it is prohibited in several countries.

43. Fern gu-sui-bu

This variety of fern, whose scientific name is Drynaria roosii, has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine to promote bone regeneration after damage, and there are studies that support this healing property.

44. Reed of mats

This type of reed is used in some regions of Western Asia as an ingredient to add to food for people with low energy and tiredness.

45. Apong-apong

Certain parts of this tropical tree are used to help eliminate parasites such as lice or scabies.

46. Khat

This shrub grows in various regions of Africa, and is used as a psychostimulant. However, the fact that it is relatively weak has made it legal in many countries. western countries where cocaine derivatives are prohibited (from an unrelated plant with this). Still, abusing it can lead to long-term cognitive damage.

47. Kaempferia rotunda

This medicinal plant it is boiled to be used on the skin and relieve itching.

48. Herb of St. Simon

Circaea lutetiana has been used for centuries to lower fever and relieve discomfort from rheumatism.

49. Kadsura longipedunculata

This shrub native to China and parts of Southeast Asia is used for treat some gastrointestinal problems (slow digestion), and infections.

50. Guaco

The infusions of this climbing plant, also called liana, are used as an anti-inflammatory.

Bibliographic references:

• Chevallier, A. (1997). Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Madrid: Editorial Acento.
• Mejía Correa, L., Abad, M. I. and Escobar, V. (2014). The secrets of the plants. 3rd edition. Medellín: Secrets to Count Foundation.
• Ministry of Health, Government of Chile (2009). MHT traditional herbal medicines: 103 plant species. Santiago: Ministry of Health. Social protection network.