Indians have always used medicinal herbs for healing purposes. These products are now making a comeback of sorts with more people looking at natural ways to cure health problems and build immunity. The global herbal supplements and remedies market is expected to show robust growth, spurred by an aging population and increasing consumer awareness about general health and well-being.
Down with cold and cough? Suffering from insomnia? Burnt your fingers and don’t know which antiseptic to apply? Fear not!
Dadima ke nushke (Grandmother’s prescriptions) can never go out of fashion.
Moreover, as long as we can remember, we have been cooking with different kinds of herbs. And now, several studies have proven dadima (grandmother) true.
Most herbs have been found to be rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and carminative (relieves flatulence) properties.
So, obviously, the best way to keep ailments at bay is to include the right herbs in your diet.
What are Herbs?
Herbs are small and weak plants. They have thin, green, soft stems. They live only for a few months. Since the olden days, herbs have been widely used for preparing medicines. Besides strengthening our immune system, herbs also add flavour to food.
Before we take a look at the advantages of using medicinal herbs, let’s have a look at today’s conventional solutions to health problems, which explains why people are opting for herbal health choices.
Medicinal Herbs – Holistic Approach Towards Health
The main problem with conventional or traditional medicine is that it has an illness-based approach to health – we only visit a physician when we have symptoms of some kind, and not because we wish to be healthier.
So, basically, today’s standard medical approach is not health centered (offers little help to you to reach optimum health).
The best thing about herbal medicine is that it takes a holistic approach, and does treat each part of the body in isolation.
Besides, the goal is to reach optimum health and to prevent diseases from developing.
Medicinal Herbs – Any Potential Danger?
Just because these products are ‘Natural’ does not mean that we can use medicinal herbs indiscriminately.
Natural means these work on human body in a harmonious way. But you still have to take them as prescribed.
Herbs can be used in their natural form or as an herbal mixture (these are also available as herbal supplements products).
Common Herbs Used by Indians
Let us take a look at some of the most common Herbs found around us:
Turmeric
Turmeric or haldi root is a herb and is often called as ‘a cousin to ginger’. Ground and dried turmeric is often used as a spice in everyday cooking. Turmeric helps build immunity, better digestion and helps in good brain function.
Garlic
Though Garlic is a veggie, it is also considered an herb. Often used in everyday meals, garlic is best known to fight against bacteria and viruses.
Basil
Holy Basil or Tulsi is often found in most homes. Basil has many medicinal properties that helps to fight infections and has healing properties. It also has Vitamin K that boosts brain power.
Ginger
Ginger is a root often used in tea, soups, curries, etc. It is known to boost immunity and fight common cold and cough. It is also dried and powdered to be used for its medicinal properties.
Coriander
This fresh, green, leafy herb strengthens stomach, helps in better digestion and clears the toxins from our body. Its medicinal properties boost our immune system.
Mint
Also known as Pudina, mint is known for boosting digestion and good oral health. Mint is one of the oldest known herbs to mankind that has several medicinal properties.
Grow Medicinal herbs at Home
You can even grow these at home. Gardening is a great form of exercise that keeps you fit and also helps you unwind.
Here are some medicinal herbs that you can easily grow at home:
- Sage: Sage is not just a culinary herb, but medicinal too. You can grow this herb in well-drained, fertile soil, where there is enough sunlight. It can survive well in dry, indoor air, but it will need strong sunlight.
- Fennel: Fennel plant is a highly aromatic herb and is well known for its many medicinal values. You can easily grow these on your balcony. Planting fennel seeds is easy. The seeds can be sown as soon as the soil warms in the spring. Soaking seeds for a day or two before sowing will ensure better germination. Keep the soil moist till the seeds sprout.
- Rosemary: This medicinal herb increases concentration power and instantly lifts your mood. It grows best in sandy or gravelly soil and prefers neutral to alkaline conditions with average fertility.
- Basil: This medicinal herb can help with lack of appetite, cuts and scrapes. Sow basil seeds in a warm, sunny corner of your house and provide water on a regular basis to retain moisture after the soil has warmed.
- Lemon Balm: This is a versatile medicinal herb that helps relieve anxiety, insomnia, wounds, flatulence and upset stomach. This herb easily grows rich, moist but well-drained soil.
- Coriander: Its a common kitchen herb used in many forms – green leaves, seeds, powder of seeds, etc. You can easily grow it in a pot and get the benefits of its medicinal value.
Final Word
Using medicinal herbs in any form will definitely be beneficial to your health. However, it’s also important to eat a healthy balanced diet (applies to both neither nutritional as well as herbal supplements). Nutritional supplements (including herbal extracts), when used as a part of a healthy lifestyle, can help you reach optimum health.
Leave a Reply