In continuation of my previously published abstracts title -
Intriguing facts of medicinal plants, I am glad to publish
the
part 5. I hope the readers have gained some insights into the medicinal plants and their benefits to mankind. I am carrying out elaborate studies in this regards from various sources and compiling it as abstracts. Readers are requested to
grade this abstract or contact me for any queries. My contact detail is xyrobinxy@yahoo.co.in
1… CINNAMON;Scientific Name:Cinnamomum verum syn. C. zeylanicum (Lauraceae);
History and Uses:Cinnamon is native to Sri Lanka, growing in tropical forest and being extensively cultivated throughout the tropical regions of the world. Cinnamon has a long history of use in India and was first used medicinally in Egypt and parts of Europe from about 500 BC. The infusion or powder is used for stomach pains and cramps. Traditionally, the herb was taken for colds, flu and digestive problems, and it is still used in much the same way today.
Main Properties: Warming stimulant, carminative, antispasmodic, antiseptic, anti-viral.
2… CLOVE;Scientific Name: Eugenia caryophyllata syn. Syzgium aromaticum (Myrtaceae);
History and Uses: Clove trees are original from Indonesia. The dried flower buds, clove, are extensively used as spice. The buds, leaves and stems are used for the extractions of clove's oil. Both the oil and the flower buds have been valued as a herbal medicine for a long time. The oil contains eugenol, a strong anaesthetic and atiseptic substance. Cloves are also well known for their antispasmodic and stimulative properties.
Main Properties: Antiseptic, mind and body stimulant, analgesic, antibacterial, carminative.
3… COMFREY, KNITBONE;Scientific Name: Symphytum officinale (Boraginaceae);
History and Uses:
Comfrey's name derives from the Latin con firma, i.e. "with strength", from the belief that it could heal broken bones. Comfrey leaves and roots contain allantoin, a cell multiplication agent that increases the healing of wounds. Today, it is still highly regarded for its healing properties. Externally it is used for rashes, wounds, inflammation and skin problems. Internally, comfrey has action over the digestive tract helping to cure ulcers and colitis. It is also used for a variety of respiratory problems.
Main Properties: Digestive problems, anti-inflammatory, wound healing, astringent.
4… CORIANDER;Scientific Name: Coriandrum sativum (Umbelliferae);
History and Uses: Coriander use has a medicinal plant has been reported since 1500 B.C. both as a spice and as a medicine. It has now spread well beyond its native Mediterranean and Caucasian regions. It aids digestion, reduce flatulence and improves appetite. It helps relieving spasms within the gut and counters the effects of nervous tension. Coriander is also chewed to sweeten the breath, especially after consumption of garlic (Allium sativum). It is applied externally as a lotion for rheumatic pain. Coriander essential oil is used in the manufacture of perfumes, cosmetics and dentifrices.
Main Properties: Digestive, antispasmodic, anti-rheumatic.
5… CYMBOPOGON, LEMON GRASSScientific Name: Cymbopogon citratus (Gramineae)
History and Uses: Native from Sri Lanka and South India, lemon grass is now widely cultivated in the tropical areas of America and Asia. Its oil is used as a culinary flavoring, a scent and medicine. Lemon grass is principally taken as a tea to remedy digestive problems diarrhea and stomach ache. It relaxes the muscles of the stomach and gut, relieves cramping pains and flatulence and is particularly suitable for children. In the Caribbean, lemon grass is primarily regarded as a fever-reducing herb. It is appliedxternally as a poultice or as diluted essential oil to ease pain and arthritis.
Main Properties: Digestive, antispasmodic, analgesic.
6… DAMIANAScientific Name: Turnera diffusa syn. T. diffusa var. aphrodisiaca (Turneraceae)
History and Uses: Native from the Gulf of Mexico, damiana has an ancient reputation as an aphrodisiac and is an excellent remedy for the nervous system acting as a stimulant and tonic in cases of mild depression. Damiana has a strongly aromatic, slightly bitter taste. The leaves are used to flavor liqueurs and are taken in Mexico as a substitute for tea.
Main Properties: Nerve tonic, antidepressant, urinary antiseptic.