Common sense was instrumental in making science “open its eyes” to medicinal plants and herbs. In the past, people learned to use these spices on a trial basis, which could save but also worsen the patient’s clinical condition.

Currently, we are aware of the properties that many elements extracted from nature have. However, there are still many species to be discovered and studied.

To determine the benefits provided by plants, it is necessary to take into account the work of many professionals, such as botanists, doctors, herbalists, chemists and even anthropologists. Because, in addition to discovering what herbs are capable of doing in the body, they also need to work out how to use them and the recommended amount.

Ways to use medicinal plants

Not every herb can be ingested, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be used to benefit humans. This is why there are several ways to use it when it comes to natural treatments.

Thus, the plants can be used in the preparation of teas, juices, compresses, baths, inhalations, gargles, poultices and tinctures.

teas

There are different ways to prepare tea, such as infusion, decoction, maceration and herbal tea. In the first case, the water is boiled and then poured into the container with the herbs, then it is necessary to cover it and wait for the drink to be ready.

When it comes to preparation by decoction, first the plant is soaked in cold water for a few hours and then placed in the fire. Maceration soaking time is longer, approximately one whole day. When it is a herbal tea, the procedure is more common and practical, as the ingredients are fired and after straining, the tea can be ingested.

juices

Excellent sources of nutrients and vitality, juices made with medicinal herbs are great options for those who prefer a cooler drink than tea. Just use ice water and mix some plants in a blender or food processor. Before serving, the juices must be strained and, like teas, they do not need to be added with sugar.

compresses

Some plants cannot be consumed but can be used in the form of compressions. Ideal for treating joint pain, rashes, rheumatism and other problems. To prepare a compress, it is necessary to make a tea that is four times stronger than the conventional one. After the process of cooking the herbs, they are placed in a cloth and applied to the injured area.

baths

Another way to use herbs without having to ingest them is through medicinal baths or stools. Both are great options for those who suffer mainly from hemorrhoids. To do so, just find the sheets with properties capable of reversing this situation. Baths are made with prepared infusions for up to 45 minutes.

Inhalations

Main indication for people who have problems in the airways, inhalations are made by inhaling the steam from the infusions. Just find the right sheets capable of dealing with these problems.

gargling

This method is one of the few that can be done multiple times in a day. It is made through the decoction of medicinal herbs and can be useful for problems such as thrush, sore throat, etc.

Poultice

Ideal for treating wounds, burns or other skin conditions, the poultice does not use the liquid extracted from the plant, but the medicinal herb that has been pounded in the pestle to form a paste-like appearance. Dry leaves can also be used, especially if they are used to treat cramps.

Dye

Natural remedy made from medicinal plant and alcohol, the tincture must be used dissolved in water. The proportion of this mixture can vary between five to 20 drops of dye per liter of water.