The Benefits of Herbs from A to Z

Since humanity exists, people have resorted to plants to treat and prevent the ills that affect our body, whether physical or mental. Some even believe in the spiritual powers that some of these specimens of nature can bring to life. Now, check out The Benefits of Herbs from A to Z:

Avocado: “Persea Gratíssima”: Rich in vitamins and proteins, it is diuretic, fights gout, uric acid and eliminates kidney and gallstones. It is preferable to use the dry leaves, as the green ones are stimulants and increase heart palpitations. Avocado massis hair fortifying and has high healing power.

Watercress “Sisymbrium nasturtium”: With sulfur in large quantities, it is a great anti-dandruff, reduces hair loss, is also a stimulating, healing, depurative, anti-inflammatory, decongestant, digestive, diuretic and antiscorbutic tonic.

Artichoke “Cynara sculymus”: Great diuretic and uric acid and rheumatism eliminator . It acts on liver and digestive disorders, increases bile secretion and lowers blood pressure. Avoid in lactation.

Rosemary “Rosmarinus officinalis”: Very useful for heart failure, it is exciting for the heart and stomach. Combats flatulence, liver, kidney and intestine ailments. Tea fights cough, asthma and flu. In baths it relieves rheumatism and heals wounds. Normal dose: From 5 to 10g per litre.

Lavender “Lavandula officinalis”: Powerful antiseptic, healing, stimulates peripheral circulation, antidepressant, sedative and analgesic. And still purifying deodorant and great insect repellent.

Garlic “Alium sativum”: Powerful blood purifier, expectorant, pulmonary antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, tonic, vermifuge, antioxidant, lowers cholesterol and blood viscosity. It is highly indicated in the fight against: diabetes , hypertension, bronchitis, asthma and flu.

Plum “Prunus Domestic”: Both the leaves and the fruit serve to loosen the intestines and regulate digestive functions. As a result, the skin improves.

Mulberry “Morus Nigra”: The leaves are used to combat diabetes , kidney stones to cleanse the bladder. It has recently been found to be useful in hormone replacement.

Andiroba “Carápa guaiananensis”: Amazonian seed that serves as a repellent and as a cellular reconstituent of the dermis, eliminating inflammation and superficial pain. It has purgative action in eliminating worms.

Angelica “Angelica Officinalis”: Aromatic plant from the northern hemisphere. Indicated in the digestive tract and in the insufficiency of gastric juice and stomach problems. Not recommended for diabetics

Anise “Pimpinella anisum”: Anise seed favors salivary and gastric secretions and lactation. It is indicated in nervous dyspepsia, migraines of digestive origin, infantile colic, cardiovascular deficiencies (palpitations and angina), asthma, bronchial spasms and increases breast milk. Avoid prolonged use, it can cause intoxication and mental confusion.

Arnica “Arnica do Campo” : Powerful anti-inflammatory, stimulating tonic, antiseptic and analgesic. Indicated in bruises, sprains, bruises and trauma, phlebitis, boils and even oral infections.

Aroeira “Schinus Terebinthifolius”: Balsamic and astringent used in diseases of the urinary tract, such as cystitis . In bronchitis, flu and cold fight fever and secretions.

Ruta “Ruta Graveoleons”:  Its active principle increases the resistance of blood capillaries, prevents rupture, causes a slight contraction of the uterus, stimulates muscle fibers. Indicated especially in  rheumatism , neuralgia, verminoses and respiratory problems, its inhalation opens the bronchi. It is hemenagogue, antispasmodic and stimulant.

Artemisia. “Artemisia vulgaris”:  Female plant that has a stimulating action on the uterus and should be avoided by pregnant women. The tea fights ovary problems, irregular menstrual cycle, worms and anemia (2 cups a day maximum).

Avenca “Adiantum capillus-veneris”: It has a protective action on sensitive skin and acts against hair loss . Combats respiratory ailments such as bronchitis and coughing up phlegm.

Bank. “Thea sinensis”: Originally from China, it has been with the culture for millennia as a fine-tasting digestive, diuretic and slightly tonic.

Barbatimão “Stryphnodendro barbatiman”: Rich in tannin. The powder is applied on ulcers, mycoses and hernias (20g cooked in 1/2 liter of water, in baths and washings). Internally, it should be used as a tonic, cooking the bark to combat uterine bleeding, vaginal catarrh and diarrhea.

Burdock/Leaf “Arctium lappa”: Indicated mainly for the skin and as an antibiotic, still diuretic, hypoglycemic, anti-inflammatory, bactericidal, depurative and healing, in addition to acting on the scalp in desquamating dermatitis.

Boldo Slipper “Peomus boldus”: It is a powerful digestive with tonic and stimulating properties, activates salivary, biliary and gastric secretion in cases of hypoacidity and dyspepsia. Widely used in chronic and acute hepatitis.

Borago “Borago officinalis”: Medicinal and food plant that resembles the scent of cucumber, making it a very nutritious salad. It has Vitamin C , alkaloids. It is anti-inflammatory, expectorant, astringent and highly diuretic. Very indicated in cases of bladder inflammation andor bladder stones . It helps to eliminate toxins and improve the skin.

Aloe “Aloe arborescens”: It has healing properties and is great for inflammation, burns and hair loss. Applying its juice directly to the hair makes it silky. It also works to eliminate blemishes on the skin.

“Zea Mays” Corn Hair: Powerful diuretic, it regulates kidney and bladder functions by removing sand and stones. Corn hair tea lowers blood pressure and detoxifies the blood. Use in advanced cases of kidney or bladder inflammation is not recommended.

Cactus/Mandacaru “Cactus grandiflorus”:  Heart stimulant, used in cardiac disorders, circulatory disorders, rheumatism and angina pectoris. It does not accumulate in the body.

Cashew tree “Anacardium occidentale”: It is a stimulant for the body, fights diabetes and is anti-hemorrhagic. In gargling, it cures sore throats, canker sores. Soothes vaginal irritations.

Canlendula. “Calendula officinalis”: Famous for being anti-allergic and healing, it still cures and reduces gastritis and duodenal ulcer, as it has antitumor action. Oleanolic acid soothes and refreshes sensitive and sunburned skin. It favors the regeneration of damaged tissues and is antiseptic.

Cana do Marsh “Costus spicatus”: Excellent diuretic, helps eliminate bladder stones, syphilis and kidney inflammation. It still fights atherosclerosis. The powdered root serves as a poultice for hernias, swellings and bruises.

Cinnamon “Cinnamomum zeylanicum”: Originally from Sri Lanka, southeastern India, it is aromatic, stimulates circulation, heart and increases blood pressure. It causes contraction of muscles and uterus, so it is hemenagogue.

Caramboleira: “Averhoa carambola”: Great diuretic eliminates kidney and bladder stones, fights fevers and alleviates diabetes.

Vegetable Charcoal: Charcoal made from soft wood and non-resinous, has been used since ancient Egypt for medicinal purposes. Because it is highly absorbent, it is used to eliminate toxins in cases of poisoning or intoxication. Due to its speed of action, it was used by the Indians in snake and spider bites. Indoor and outdoor use.

Cardo Santo “Cirsium vulgare”: Bitter tonic, astringent, diuretic, expectorant and antiseptic. Indicated in gastric problems, indigestion, asthma and bronchial catarrh.

Carqueja “Baccharis triptera”: It has a beneficial action on the liver and intestines, cleanses toxins from the blood, in addition to being a great hypoglycemic agent. Indicated in cases of gastritis , poor digestion, heartburn, gallstones and constipation.

Cascara Sagrada “Rhamnus purshiana”: Strong laxative that restores the natural tone of the colon of the intestine and normalizes the functions of the intestine.

Indian chestnut. “Aesculus hippocastanum”: Excellent circulatory tonic; this is noticed 15 to 30 minutes after ingestion; relieves leg and back pain, preventing vascular accidents.

Catuaba “Erytroxylon catuaba”: Aphrodisiac and invigorating, it contains an alkaloid similar to atropine, which operates slowly giving energy to the body. Indicated in cases of fatigue or sexual impotence .

Horsetail “Equisetum arvensis”:  Anti-inflammatory, astringent and revitalizing. Indicated in the treatment of genital and urinary problems, excessive menstruation. It acts on the bronchi, clearing secretions from the lungs and blood. Replaces the silicon lost in weight loss.

Centella Asiatica “Hydrocotile asiatica”: French biochemist Jules Lépine discovered that this plant has an alkaloid that can rejuvenate the brain, nerves and endocrine glands. The Chinese assign it a value equal to ginseng . With toning properties it normalizes collagen production releasing fat cells. That’s why it is so suitable for slimming and skin therapies.

Leather Hat “Equinodorus macrophyllus”: Depurative well known in skin therapies; It has a laxative and bile stimulant effect. By action on the kidneys and liver, it reduces uric acid and rheumatism .

Comfrey “Symphytum asperrimum”: Great healing agent that should not be ingested, as it contains toxic properties. The infusion should be used in compresses to eliminate irritations and pimples on the skin, aid in the healing of burns and wounds.

Clove “Syzygium aromaticum”: Exciting and aromatic, relieves toothache and facilitates menstruation.

Dandelion “Taraxacum officinalis”: Liver tonic, diuretic and blood purifier, acts on the liver and kidneys , is indicated for diabetics. It strengthens the nerves, but your daily intake cannot exceed 3 cups, without sweeteners.

Douradinha “Waltherea douradinha”: Efficient diuretic in difficulty urinating, bladder inflammation, eliminating stones. Against lung problems, bronchitis and cough.

Embaúba “Cecropia palmata”: Powerful diuretic, which relieves pressure and regulates the heartbeat. Do not make continuous use.

Emburana “Torresea cearensis”: Bronchodilator that causes relaxation. Indicated in the manifestations of bronchitis , cough and asthma . Relieves intestinal and uterine colic.

Dill “Anethum graveolens”: Fights vomiting; cures sore throats. Relieves flatulence, intestinal and stomach cramps.

Whaling Herb/Salicinia. “Verbenaceous Cordia”: Anti-inflammatory, healing; has the property of removing bruises.

Lemon balm “Melissa officinalis” Tranquilizer: It is sedative, induces sleep and allows the control of emotions. Indicated in nervous crises, tachycardia, hysterism and depression . It is a powerful pain reliever, and relieves high blood pressure.

Animal Herb “Polygonum acre”: It has a circulatory effect, alleviates bleeding, hemorrhoids and varicose veins. Improves brain performance and reasoning.

Macas Herb “Leunurus sibiricus”: Indicated in skin diseases and erysipelas , fights cholesterol and high blood pressure.

Santa Maria herb “Chenopodium ambrosioides”:  Cures indigestion, hemorrhoids , varicose veins ; facilitates menstruation , circulation and fights nervous diseases.

Herb de Bugre “Casearia sylvestris”: Slimming, diuretic, anti-cholesterol, reduces swelling of the legs, stimulates circulation and the heart. Useful in skin diseases, snake and spider bites.

St. John’s Wort”Agerathum conyzoides”: Antifebrile, very effective against stomach pain, colic and gas.

Sweet Herb “Pimpinella anisum”: It has a calming action, combating insomnia , nausea, cramps and vomiting. Restores menstruation and increases breast milk.

Espinheira Santa “Maytenus ilicifolia”: Its use is indicated in the treatment of various diseases of the digestive system, especially ulcers. It also acts on abnormal intestinal fermentations, normalizing gastrointestinal functions, is also antiseptic and healing. At the end of the 80’s, the Medicines Center released an official study proving the therapeutic properties of this herb.

Aromatic Eucalyptus “Eucalyptus globulos”: Powerful antiseptic; It is indicated for use in inhalations, for lung problems, bronchitis , asthma, sore throats.

Fenugreek “Trigonella foenum-graecum”: Highly nutritious seed, which stimulates the appetite, fattening. Indicated to combat the typical weaknesses of the flu, anemia or convalescence. Improves skin and prevents wrinkles.

Fucus (algae): “Vesicular Fucus”: Indicated for cases of hypothyroidism, obesity and thyroid dysfunctions with low iodine content. Contraindicated in cases of hyperthyroidism, heart problems, pregnancy and lactation.

Devil’s Claw “Harpagophytum procumbens”: Anti-inflammatory of African origin, born only in deserts, it is indicated against rheumatism , diabetes, arteriosclerosis (improves the flexibility of the arteries) and liver diseases.

Gentian “Gentiana lutea”: Digestive stimulant, depurative. Indicated in lack of appetite, anorexia , gastrointestinal problems. It is contraindicated in cases of gastric ulcer.

Ginger “Zingiber officinalis”: Gastrointestinal stimulant; It is also a good anti-inflammatory that has results against rheumatism and arthritis.

Gervão “Verbena bonariensis”: Indicated in liver and stomach pain, fevers, constipation and diuretic.

Ginkgo Biloba: Tree considered a living fossil, ancestor of the oak, it is mentioned in Chinese writings from 2800 BC and considered sacred in the East. It has preventive and curative action on cell oxidation and aging. Stimulates circulation, prevents thrombosis. Also indicated against micro varicose veins, arthritis and leg fatigue.

Brazilian Ginseng “Pfaffia Paniculata”: It has a long list of medicinal indications. It is considered to be rejuvenating and revitalizing.

Korean Ginseng “Panai Ginseng”: Stimulant, can raise blood pressure . Therefore, it is not recommended for hypertensive patients. Maximum dose; 2 small spoons a day.

Guaco “Mikania glomerata”: Dissolves phlegm from the bronchi, expels secretions typical of colds and bronchitis, easing throat inflammation.

Guaraná: “Paullinia cupana”:  The Maué Indians call it Paullinia cupana, from the Amazon, an extraordinary stimulant that gives physical energy to the body. Contains a lot of caffeine. Indicated for cases of physical exhaustion, intellectual activities, and is an aphrodisiac.

Guinea “Petiveria tetrandra”: Indicated for headache , migraine, lack of memory and nervous problems. Effective antidote to snake venom and abortifacient.

Graviola “Anona muricata”: Tea from the leaves is a great slimming agent, lowers cholesterol and lowers blood pressure. Powerful hypoglycemic agent very indicated in diabetes. It is still analgesic in neuralgia and rheumatism .

Hamamelis “Hamamelis virginica”: Containing essentially tannin, it has an astringent action, reduces secretions and activates circulation. Widely used as a shampoo, as it activates skin circulation and prevents hair loss.

Ivy “Glechoma hederacea”: Climbing plant, common on walls, it contains important therapeutic properties, contains toxic seeds, its leaves are analgesic, vasodilator, decongestant. It has an inhibitory effect on fungi, with antibiotic action. Because it contains a lot of iodine , it is contraindicated in cases of hyperthyroidism.

Hibiscus “Hibiscus sabdarifa”: Reddish flower, with a flavor similar to strawberry, has a laxative effect without colic, improves digestion, increases diuresis and calms the nerves.

Japanese mint “Nlentha arvensis”: Soothing, antiseptic and decongestant. It eliminates gases and is a sedative for the stomach (stops vomiting). The infusion made with 20g. For 1/2 liter of water, in the form of inhalation, decongests the respiratory tract.

Ipecacuanha (Papaconha) “Cephaelis ipecacuanha”: Northeast root indicated against bronchitis and cough with phlegm.

Ipê-Roxo “Tabebuia impetiginosa”: Natural antibiotic famous for its analgesic and anticoagulant properties. It is also indicated in cases of bronchitis, asthma and arteriosclerosis. It is considered to be a powerful aid in the fight against certain types of cancerous tumors. It is also used as an analgesic and as an aid in the treatment of stomach and skin diseases.

In the past, it was widely used in the treatment of syphilis . The Ipê-roxo tree is tall and has purple tubular flowers as a characteristic. The substance with therapeutic properties is found in the bark.

Jaborandi “Pilocarpus jaborandi”:  Its active principle is the alkaloid Pilocarpine, which acts on the salivary and sweat glands. It stimulates gastric secretions, so it is a great digestive. It has a similar effect to Espinheira Santa . It is found in a region of very characteristic soil and climate. Its active ingredient is already widely used by the drug industry in the treatment of glaucoma .

It was used in the past to sharpen the scent of hunting dogs. It is also indicated in the treatment of diseases of the respiratory system. Several shampoos bring Jaborandi in their formula, considered a powerful ally in the fight against hair loss. For years, the plant has been extracted in large quantities for use in foreign laboratories. There are no plans to replace copies taken from the region. The few areas of regular cultivation are controlled by foreign laboratories.

Jasmine “Gardenia jasminoides”: Diuretic and stimulant indicated as cough and flu syrup. Great eye drops against eye inflammation.

Jatobá “Hymenaea courabril”: Fortifying agent used against lung diseases. Cures cystitis (non-infectious).

Juá “Solanum viarum”: The bark is used to clean the mouth, the fruits are soothing for nerves and heartburn. The root is diuretic, helps to lose weight, improves liver and bladder functions.

Jurubeba “Solanum paniculatum”:  Stimulator of the digestive functions of the liver and spleen. Indicated in cases of liver failure and constipation .

Orange tree “Citrus aurantium”: Great against colds and flu, as it is depurative; It has vitamins and minerals.

Laurel “Laurus nobilis”: Holy remedy against bad digestion and alcoholic hangover, liver and stomach diseases.

Losna “Artemisia absinthum”: Bitter gastric stimulant, increases appetite and is an aphrodisiac. But in high doses it can become a psychostimulant. Indicated against nervous diseases and lack of appetite.

Hops/Flower “Humulus lupulus”:  Lupulin, a golden powder that covers the flowers, is a powerful sedative and hypnotic, indicated in cases of insomnia . It is also digestive and antibiotic.

Macela/Flor “Achyzocline satureoides”: Aromatic plant with inflorescences used in pillows with calming purposes. The tea is indicated for digestive problems, heartburn and to soothe abdominal cramps.

Malva “Malva sylvestris”: Vegetable very suitable for respiratory problems, favors healing and gastrointestinal processes, with benefits for the skin.

Mamica de Cadela “Zanthoxylon rhoifolium”:  Indicated against skin problems, against insect and snake bites.

Passionflower “Passiflora alara”: Passionflower has a tranquilizing, antispasmodic and diuretic action. Indicated in headaches of nervous origin, anxiety , nervous disorders. Contraindicated in low blood pressure .

Marapuama “Ptychopetalum olacoides”: Of Amazonian origin, it is an aphrodisiac. Its alkaloid has a stimulating action on the central nervous system, is antidepressant and is indicated in cases of physical exhaustion and sexual impotence.

Mil Folhas/Novalgina “Aquiléa millefolium”: One of the most important and powerful herbs in the pharmacopoeia. Tea is good for lowering fever, relieving pain, rheumatism , varicose veins, insomnia, high blood pressure, poor circulation, stomach and liver ailments. The infusion made into ice cubes should be applied over hemorrhoids . Indicated for sitz baths in warm temperature, against gynecological problems.

Strawberry “Fragaria vesca”: Against inflammation of the kidneys and bladder, unclogging the kidneys, releasing urine. As a result, it alleviates gout, tactic acid and rheumatism .

Mulungu “Erytrina verna”:  Powerful sedative, analgesic and widely used in manipulation, against high blood pressure.

Walnut “Juglans regia”: Tea from the leaves cleanses and strengthens the blood, walnuts are great food for nerves, brain and growth. Soaking hair in walnut shell infusion darkens gray hairs.

Nutmeg “Myristica fragans”:  Digestive and anti-rheumatic, widely used against high blood pressure.

Olive tree “Olea europaea”:  Stimulating the appetite, olive tea is also used to raise blood pressure, dilate the veins, relieve inflammation in the mouth and throat.

Pala Christy “Ricinus comunis”: Famous laxative from which castor oil originates.

Parietaria “Parietaria officinalis”: Very used in kidney ailments, inflammation of the bladder. It dissolves stones and relieves pain.

Pariparoba/Jaguarandi “Piper umbellatum”: Multipurpose, it works against colds and asthma and also against liver and spleen ailments, relieving heartburn, ulcers and hemorrhoids . Chewing the root relieves toothache.

Pata de Vaca “Bauhinia forficata”: Powerful hypoglycemic agent, indicated in diabetes and elephantiasis , with great success.

Pau Pra Tudo”Cinamodendron axillare”: Aphrodisiac, very indicated against diabetes.

Pau Lieutenant “Quassia amara”: Indicated in stomach ailments and diabetes, it lowers the blood sugar rate, also acts against malaria and yellow fever . Washing the head with the tea eliminates lice.

Pedra Ume Caá “Myrcia sphaerocarpa”: Of Amazonian origin, it enjoys the reputation of plant insulin, used in the treatment of diabetes by lowering the level of sugar and cholesterol.

White Picão “Galinsoga parviflora”: Digestive widely used in stomach pains, liver ailments, jaundice and other infections of the digestive system.

Picão Preto “Bidens pilosa”: Digestive that also helps to remove stones in the gallbladder and kidneys, stomachaches. Alleviates diabetes.

Pitangueira “Stenocalys michelli”: Widely used against diarrhea in children, bronchitis, fever and even lowers blood pressure. It’s soothing for children and good for the nerves.

Porangaba “Cordia salicifolia”: Powerful slimming that lowers cholesterol. Not to be confused with Erva de Bugre .

Pulmonaria “Pulmonaria officinalis”:  As its name says it is indicated in lung diseases , it is an efficient expectorant, mixed with bee honey. Makes breathing easier. Suitable for people who work with dust.

Roma/Peel “Punica granathum”:  Astringent, against sore throat, tonsils and colic. Eliminates worms and roundworms.

Rosehip: “Rosa rubiginosa”:  Prevents colds and flu (high content of vitamin C). Mild laxative, normalizing bowel functions, diuretic, through stimulation of kidney metabolism. The oil extracted from the seeds is a great regenerator of skin tissues, with properties to reduce scars and certain types of blemishes. The oil also helps in treating freckles, premature aging and preventing stretch marks .

Elderberry “Sambucus nigra”: Powerful sudorific in the processes of flu, colds , cough, measles and mumps. Eliminates uric acid, kidney stones and toxins from the blood.

Salvia “Salvia officinalis”:  Hypoglycermic herb, which is not as bitter as others and still has antiseptic, astringent and stimulating action. Used as a deodorant, it has the ability to close pores and retain sweating. It is contraindicated in pregnancy and lactation.

Parrilla Parrilla “Smilax sarsaparilla”:  Blood purifier, combats gout, uric acid and rheumatism . Decreases difficulty in urinating, eliminates kidney and bladder stones.

Indian Senna “Cassia augustifolia”:  A good laxative, but do not use continuously. Indicated in cases of constipation, take a maximum of 1 cup a day and a maximum of 10 days in a row. Use a maximum of 2g infusion per cup of water. It should not be used by pregnant women.

Seven Sangrias “Cuphea ingrata”:  It has a sedative effect on the central nervous system. It is indicated in the treatment of arteriosclerosis, hypertension and heart palpitations. Use for children is not recommended.

Stevia. “Stevia rebaudiana”:  A sweet gift from nature, which analyzed in the laboratory showed to be 300 times sweeter than cane sugar. It has no calories and is still a diuretic. Very suitable for diabetics.

Tayula “Cayaponia tayuia”:  Powerful depurative detoxifies the blood. It has laxative action and unclogs the liver.

Plantago “Plantago major”:  One of the plants with the greatest medicinal and veterinary value. It acts as a bactericide on the respiratory tract in cases of inflammation, destroying microorganisms and cleaning secretions. Also indicated in cases of diarrhea and postpartum bleeding. Use 30g infusion for every liter of water.

Linden “Tilia cordata”:  Sacred tree of ancient Germanic civilizations. Sweating, decongestant and relaxing, it is indicated in cases of fevers, colds and stomach pains. Relieves headache , migraine and nervous tension. Use 10g for every liter of water.