The use of is an important aspect of alternative, natural medicine. The National Park Service's Medicinal Plant Working Group asserts that, in the United States, the market for medicinal herbs is worth more than $3 billion. Traditionally, medicinal plants were used to relieve congestion, treat cuts and wounds, and ease childhood maladies. Modern alternative medicine seeks to continue the tradition of natural cures whenever feasible.
Wounds, Cuts and Bruises
Several plants have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. St. John's wort was traditionally used by American Indians to treat wounds and pain through a tea made from the leaves. Onions, garlic and other members of the allium family are also known for their disinfectant qualities. Applying a slice of onion directly to a would can help ease pain and decrease infection. Mohican and Penobscot Indians used wild indigo to treat snake bites, minor cuts and bruises. Yarrow's use in poultices for wounds goes back to the time of ancient Greece. The plant is scientifically proven to have blood-clotting properties, making it a good natural remedy for stemming the flow of blood.
Respiratory Problems
The Comanche and Sioux Indians of North America used echinacea to fight upper respiratory infections and other ailments, such as burns and snakebites. The Massachusetts Medical Society Gardens extracts from the echinacea plant stimulate the immune system, fighting bacterial and viral infections, including sinusitis.
Pleurisy root, or Asclepius tuberosa, is another native plant of North America. Omaha Indians consumed the root to treat bronchitis and to promote coughing to bring up phlegm. The plant has similar properties to butterfly weed, also known as Asclepius incarnata.
Mental Well-Being
St. John's wort is a common plant useful for alleviating mild to moderate forms of depression. According to Brandeis University Life Sciences and Field Biology, it is a safe and effective remedy. More than 20 studies indicate it may help regulate compounds such as dopamine, interleukins, melatonin, monoamine-oxidases, and serotonin.
The borage plant, or Borago officinalis, seems to stimulate the adrenal glands to produce adrenaline, which helps the body cope with stressful situations. Use an infusion of the leaves and flowers as a tonic to relieve stress or mental exhaustion, or help alleviate depression.
Skin Conditions
Calendula officinalis, or pot marigold, is useful for a number of ailments, including skin problems. It is an anti-inflammatory with healing properties and can be used to treat eczema, cradle cap, diaper rash, sunburn and burns.
Evening primrose, or Oenothera biennis, has a variety of uses. External application of the seed's oil helps alleviate eczema and other allergic skin conditions. It is also useful in the treatment of premenstrual symptoms.
Infant Maladies
A tea of pot marigold flowers is useful in treating digestive problems in infants, such as colic. The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Healing Remedies recommends three to four teaspoons of a weak tea in juice in help alleviate symptoms.
Fennel, also known as Foeniculum vulgare, is another infant colic remedy, as it is an antispasmodic and relieves bloating. Give a weak tea of fennel leaves and seeds by the teaspoon to help treat wind, colic and irritable bowel. Breastfeeding mothers also benefit from consuming fennel, as it improves milk flow and reduces colic.
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