Garlic is a commonly used herb that has miraculous healing properties and is widely used in number of ailments. The parts used are bulb, fresh cloves and juice. Some of the medicinal properties of garlic are antiseptic, antibiotic, anti-viral, anti-allergy, aphrodisiac, anti-amoebic, anti-coagulant, detoxifier, carminative, diaphoretic, and stimulant; may protect the heart and nervous system, enhance the body's immune system, decrease the side effects of drug therapies for cancer. The therapeutically active ingredient in garlic is the allicin.
Henna (Lawsonia inermis)
Henna is an essential component of many herbal cosmetic products. The parts used are powdered leaves and flowers. Some of the properties of henna are natural hair conditioner, tinting the hair anti-fungal and antiseptic.
Lemon grass (Cymbopogon citratus)
Lemon grass is another useful herb. The parts used are grass and essential oil. Its important medicinal properties are refreshing, lemon-like tonic; antiseptic, antidepressant and astringent.
Olive (Olea europaea)
The parts used are oil of the fruit and leaves. Some of the medicinal properties are emollient, demulcent, laxative, source of linoleic acid; cold-pressed oil is used in salves for muscle pains; leaves in tea are astringent and antiseptic; may lower blood sugar in diabetes and dilate coronary arteries to improve blood circulation.
Onion (Allium cepa)
The part used is bulb. Some of the medicinal properties of onion are antiseptic, aphrodisiac, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and diuretic; rich in vitamin B1, B2, and C; stimulates the heart and reduces blood sugar.
Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
Ginger is another useful herb that is well known for its effectiveness in cough, cold and viral fevers. The parts used are dried rhizome, oil and powder. Some of the medicinal properties are anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, circulatory stimulant, antiseptic, control nausea; drinking ginger tea will bring blood to the surface and warm cold hands and feet.
Papaya (Carica papaya)
The parts used are fruit, juice and leaves. Some of the medicinal properties of papaya are ? Juice and fruit of the fresh plant can be used for wounds that refuse to heal and to remove freckles; improve digestion of proteins; leaves may be used as a substitute for soap.
Disclaimer: This article is not meant to provide health advice and is for general information only. Always seek the insights of a qualified health professional before embarking on any health program.
