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Preparation & Uses of Medicinal Plants
Preparation & Uses of Medicinal Plants. Medicinal plants have been used for thousands of years to treat all manner of illnesses and injuries. Many medicinal plants are still used in modern pills and extracts for cures and treatments both conventional and holistic. In fact, many plants can be prepared and used in multiple ways to treat different...
Medicinal plants have been used for thousands of years to treat all manner of illnesses and injuries. Many medicinal plants are still used in modern pills and extracts for cures and treatments both conventional and holistic. In fact, many plants can be prepared and used in multiple ways to treat different symptoms and conditions.
Castor Oil Plant
The castor oil plant, which is recognized by large yellowish flowers and broad leaves, turns out seeds that have benefits as a laxative. According to the Live and Feel Medicinal Plant description, "castor-oil plant seeds contain over 50 percent fat, 20 percent proteins, glucides, mineral salts, water, oleic acid, toxalbumine, enzymes and vitamin E." This plant is usually prepared by rendering it into castor oil, which can be spread on the skin to treat warts and hemorrhoids. A balm of 2 tablespoons of castor oil mixed with one tablespoon turpentine can be spread on the chest to treat colds and flu.
Celery
Celery, aside from being a healthy and low-calorie snack, is consumed whole as a diuretic and laxative. Celery is also dried and crushed into powder to be used as an infusion to treat gas and a hoarse throat. Celery juice is also used as an appetite stimulant, a detoxifier and an aphrodisiac.
Figwort
Figwort is a toxic and wild-growing plant that is used to treat swelling and wound infection. The plant contains caffeic and cumaric acids, as well as hydrobenzene, which is a toxin. This plant is prepared by mixing 1 tsp. of the ground leaves into 100 ml of boiling water and used as a tea. Additionally, the plant can be used as a warm compress over wounds by mixing 2 tsp. of the ground leaves with 250 ml of water and 1 tsp. of corn flour. This mixture should be as warm as possible while avoiding burns when it is spread over the wound. This plant is highly toxic and can result in sickness if large doses are taken; consult a professional herbalist before using figwort.
Wormwood
Wormwood, used to make absinthe, is also used to treat a number of conditions. The grayish-white plant can be dried and reduced to a powder which can then be administered mixed with honey, sugar or water. One teaspoon of powdered wormwood mixed in 250 ml of boiling water and then cooled helps to treat intestinal and stomach worms, and can even cleanse the liver. Wormwood is also used in an alcohol tincture to reduce fever and treat gastritis, anorexia and pneumonia.
