The 6 Best Medicinal Plants With Scientific Evidence

There is a wide variety of medicinal plants with scientific evidence. Thus, its components and properties have been studied by professionals who have identified their potential as additional adjuvants in the treatment of a number of diseases.

In fact, as stated in an article published in the Journal of Advanced Pharmaceutical Technology & Research, a wide variety of drugs considered essential are made from extracts of plant origin.

Yet a number of people still appreciate the uses of plants in their natural form. Which plants are the most popular? Keep reading to find out!

Medicinal plants with scientific evidence

Traditionally , plants have been used since ancient times to treat the symptoms of various diseases. As a result, scientific studies were conducted over time to test the properties attributed to it.

In addition, their research helped determine at what doses they are safe, what side effects they can cause, and in which situations they are contraindicated. Although the list is quite extensive, in the next space we will share the 6 most important medicinal plants with scientific evidence.

1. Chamomile

People use chamomile as an infusion to supplement treatments in many situations. Chamomile is a medicinal plant with many different uses.

As mentioned in an article published in Molecular Medicine Reports, its main uses relate to alleviating anxiety, stress and stomach problems. However, a number of people also use it for pain and skin problems.

The plant is known for its small, daisy-like flowers. It is usually found in two varieties: ‘True chamomile’ and ‘Trunken chamomile’. It is often used as an infusion, but is also available in essential oils and extracts, among other things.

A review published in the Electronic Physician Journal calls it a “multi-purpose plant” as research has shown it has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antidepressant, antidiarrheal, hepatoprotective and blood sugar regulating properties. For example, you can use it with:

• Osteoarthritis of the knee
• Ulcerative Colitis
• Premenstrual Syndrome
• Gastrointestinal disorders
• Anxiety and Stress

Does it cause side effects? Are there any contraindications? For most healthy adults, doctors consider it safe. However, specialists recommend avoiding excessive use. There are also reports of allergic reactions and interaction with anticoagulants.

2. Lavender

Lavender is one of the most popular and common plants with scientific evidence. It is especially helpful for its anxiolytic activity which can help a person reduce the symptoms of stress and anxiety.

A study published in Mental Health Clinician supports these properties and states that it has a favorable efficacy and safety profile.

The natural oils, as well as the herbal presentations, support the treatment of anxiety disorders without causing dependence or serious side effects. The application to use it for this purpose has been approved by the European Medicines Agency. Other possible uses include as:

• Antibacterial and antifungal.
• Smooth muscle relaxant (carminative).
• Calming and antidepressant.
• Skin rinse for burns and insect bites.

3. Echinacea

Specialists and the general public know the remedies of echinacea quite well. In addition to the striking purple flowers, people also use this plant in the form of tea, juices and extracts to strengthen the immune system and improve health.

For example, a study in the journal Pharmacognosy Reviews emphasizes that it is an herb with immunostimulating and anti-inflammatory properties.

To be precise, people use it to treat the flu, colds, and other ailments of the respiratory system. Similarly, it acts as a pain reliever in cases of toothache, bowel pain, skin conditions, and arthritis, among other illnesses.

There is some controversy about the possible side effects. While a number of studies have concluded that it is safe, others have found that it can cause side effects such as abdominal pain and allergies. Therefore be careful.

4. Ginkgo biloba

Within the list of medicinal plants with scientific evidence , ginkgo biloba is known for its multiple medicinal uses. It is an herb that many people use in Eastern medicine, both in the form of capsules and tablets, extracts, leaves and so on.

Recent research, as published in Aging and Disease, shows that the plant has shown its potential as an ally in the prevention of age-related diseases. It mainly appears to help brain health by reducing the risk of dementia.

In addition, a study published in Drug Design, Development and Therapy revealed that ginkgo also contains components that contribute to the treatment of type 2 diabetes.

Still, researchers need to conduct more studies to evaluate its safety and efficacy. So far, possible side effects such as the following have been noted:

• It can cause liver disease, making it necessary to control liver enzymes.
• There is a collaboration with anticoagulants and other medicines.
• The seeds are poisonous if ingested.
• Specialists associate long-term overuse with an increased risk of thyroid problems and liver cancer (seen in rats).
• Finally, it causes headaches, digestive problems, dizziness or allergic reactions in some people.

5. St. John’s Wort

A number of people know St. John’s wort under the name ‘hypericum’. It is a plant with sedative effects, as it has antidepressant and anxiolytic functions. In particular, as stated in a review article published in Systematic Reviews, it contains hypericin and hyperforin.

These substances are active substances with an antidepressant that, among other things, promote the relief of anxiety. It also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects and is used against the symptoms of menopause. In general, some side effects are like the following:

• Drug Interaction
• restlessness
• Burning and tingling sensation
• Dizziness

• Photosensitivity
• Irritability
• Stomach upset

6. Peppermint

When we talk about the best medicinal plants with scientific evidence, we can’t leave out peppermint. Due to its properties, it is one of the most widely used herbs in the world.

People tend to use it to soothe digestive system discomfort, headaches, and respiratory system disorders.

In this regard, a scientific paper published in Phytotherapy Research states that mint leaves contain phenolic components such as rosmarinic acid and various flavonoids whose assimilation helps to maintain health.

It has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, analgesic and immunomodulatory action. In general, its moderate use is safe for most healthy adults.

However, when used excessively, it can be irritating. The plant may also interact with certain medications. If you are undergoing drug treatment, it is best to consult your doctor before trying mint remedies.

Be careful with medicinal plants with scientific evidence

Science has proven many of the properties of the above plants. However, this does not mean that we can use them as the first option for treatment against diseases. Usually they are just a supplement to reduce the symptoms of certain conditions.

However, the effects are often temporary and not always as expected. Regardless, studies indicate that they may be beneficial for many people. For this reason, if there are no contraindications, it is worth giving them a chance. If in doubt, consult your doctor for advice.