Plants with Wondrous Benefits That Are Starting To Get Recognized

In any food chain, plants are the primary sources of energy. In human nutrition, the majority of vitamins, minerals, and carbohydrates that fuel our bodies come from plant sources. It also happens that most some of the best nutritional supplements, curative medicines, and drugs are made using ingredients from certain herbs, roots, fruits, leaves, stems, barks, or buds of certain plants. In the medical field, especially, plants and their extracts have been used for thousands of years in providing relief to common ailments such as abdominal discomfort, headaches, and body aches. Some have even been seen to help treat deeper issues such as erectile dysfunction, respiratory problems, cardiovascular issues, heart problems, mental health issues, and much more. In simpler terms, plants are just awesome, and perhaps that’s why there are way too many species of plants on this earth that the animals can’t keep up with the numbers.

But not all plants have received their due credit when it comes to the benefits they provide in the human body. Some may have, but their recognition is only within the localities where their natural growth is confined. But the world is changing and the ordinary person is starting to understand plants that are more beneficial to their health, either medically or in terms of nutrition and fitness. Below are some plants with wondrous benefits that are starting to get recognized.

1. Garcinia Cambogia

Over the last few years, Garcinia Cambogia has been in the limelight and the subject of discussion in many health forums. This is a natural fruit found in Africa, South East Asia, and India. The fruit can be used as an ingredient when preparing curries because of its sour flavor. Nutritional supplement experts at Patch MD (https://www.patchmd.com/benefits-of-garcinia-cambogia.html) say that some benefits of consuming this tropical fruit include weight loss, lowering cholesterol, and lowering blood sugar levels. This plant comes with Dr.Oz’s recommendations as a natural way for anyone who wishes to lose weight. Other benefits associated with Garcinia Cambogia include reducing joint pains, reducing appetite, improving digestion, and elevating the user’s mood. 

2. Burdock (Arctium Lappa)

Burdock is a native plant in Europe and Asia. The plant is characterized by large oval leaves, pinkish flowers, and long roots. Burdock is also known as beggar’s buttons, great bur, or edible Burdock. It was used by the natives of northern Asia to treat a range of ailments including stomach ailments, gout, increase sexual drive, and treat colds. Fresh burdock roots can be used as food while the seeds, leaves, and fruits can be used as extracts for tea. It’s now been discovered that burdock root extract can help to treat inflammation, stomach ulcers, diabetes, and cancer. However, you want to consult with your doctor as there isn’t sufficient clinical evidence to support its potency.

3. Catnip (Nepeta Cataria)

Catnip is an herb native to central Europe, but can also be found in Canada and in some parts of the United States. This strong-smelling herb with dark green leaves and white flowers belongs to the mint family of plants. This plant is commonly used in teas because of the strong aroma and the woodsy taste. The benefits of catnip tea include treating anxiety, insomnia, and indigestion. Historically, catnip was used to treat various ailments such as arthritis, viral diseases, and hives. Clinical studies and research are ongoing to determine the full benefits of this plant. Some individuals may report headaches and digestive problems after taking catnip. So if you have any underlying medical conditions or are pregnant, it’s important to consult with your doctor before taking it.

4. Calendula

This is a plant that grows on just about any type of soil and in any conditions but thrives best in moist soils. This plant is in the same family with marigolds, but with yellow flowers as the main identifiable feature. The yellow flowers are used medicinally to treat a range of ailments, including sore eyes, sprains, and chronic infections. It may be used topically to treat wounds and inflammations and when taken with tea, it can be used to treat varicose veins, fevers and chronic infections. Apart from its anti-inflammatory properties, calendula also contains antibacterial properties and when used orally, can help to treat anything from cavities to gingivitis as well as in promoting overall oral health. Calendula oil can also be applied topically as an ointment or in skin care products to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and in addition to this, significantly boost skin appearance.

Plants are amazing, especially as far as human health is concerned. Many therapeutic drugs are actually manufactured using ingredients from plant extracts. The list of plants with beneficial health effects is literally endless, but the ones mentioned above are some of the plants whose amazing benefits are just starting to get recognition.