Herbs appear in our gardens more and more often. Cultivation of these plants does not require much effort, although it is worth knowing that their medicinal value depends on the variety, place where they grow and, above all, from the time of harvest. These factors essentially influence the active ingredient content. Let's take a look at some of the popular herbal plants.
Chamomile
It belongs to the group of the most important medicinal plants. The beneficial effects of Matricaria chamomilla in traditional applications, e.g.in the case of inflammation of the skin and mucosa of the mouth and nose, pharyngitis and bronchitis, as well as stomach pains, have been confirmed in numerous studies. Chamomile flowers contain bisabolol, which has an anti-inflammatory effect.
You can make dry chamomile or ointment yourself. For inhalation, it is best to use an extract bought in a pharmacy, because the water vapor absorbs only small amounts of active substances contained in fresh or dried chamomile flowers, which we collect ourselves.
Lemon balm and valerian
These herbs are very useful for people who have trouble falling asleep. They make the sleep deep and strong and do not affect our ability to concentrate and react quickly after waking up. This is especially important for drivers, as synthetic sleeping pills can disrupt these mechanisms.
The strength of Melissa officinalis is volatile oils. Make soothing teas from the leaves or add them to relaxing baths. Valeriana officinalis valerian contains i.a. valeric acids that have a hypnotic effect. The best juice is squeezed from flowers and shoots.
Martyr
This ornamental climber of exotic origin is a less known herbal plant. However, studies confirm that infusions, tablets of dried leaves and shoots of passion flower Passiflora, as well as alcohol extracts effectively help in states of nervous excitement, reduce muscle tension and have a relaxing effect. Plants growing in full sun are suitable for herbal use.
Willow bark
Compared to other agents used against nervous and rheumatic pains, Salix purpurea and Salix daphnoides laurel bark extracts do not burden the stomach or liver and are therefore perfect for long-term treatments. The substance contained in the bark and relieves pain is salicin.
Fenugreek
In the past, this herb was used only as an aromatic spice for bread and cheese. Currently, valuable protein compounds and an alkaloid - trigonelline - contained in fenugreek Trigonella foenum-graecum L. are also indicated.They support the process of cell oxygenation, strengthen the body's immunity and efficiency. Fenugreek also stops hair loss and strengthens the hair follicles. Its spicy bitter seeds lower cholesterol and increase the oxygen content in the blood and body cells.
Black without
The fruits of this popular shrub Sambucus nigra L. contain organic compounds (flavonoids and anthocyanins) that strengthen the cell walls of the body, thus preventing the penetration of viruses. With the simultaneous intake of zinc and vitamin C, this defense against the common cold is even more effective. Juice obtained at home by evaporating fruit in a juicer and pasteurizing also has great he alth benefits.
