Medicinal Plants for Everyday Illnesses

There are many plants that can help ease or alleviate the symptoms of illnesses such as the common cold and respiratory infections.

The first plant is eucalyptus. This plant is native to Australia but now grows in Europe and North America. Eucalyptus is a traditional remedy used throughout the world for treatment of colds and infections. You will also see eucalyptus as an ingredient in cough medicines and cough drops. Eucalyptus oil is antiviral and also antibacterial. It loosens mucus caused by chest colds and bronchitis.

Another plant used to relieve the symptoms of the common cold is peppermint. The leaves of this plant are the only part which is used for medicinal purposes. The most important part of the peppermint oil is the menthol, which has antispasmadic and anesthetic qualities. Peppermint oil also has a sedative effect which can help with inflammations of the intestinal walls to relieve symptoms of nausea and diarrhea.

Horehound is a plant used to treat symptoms of chest ailments such as coughing, wheezing, bronchitis and asthma. You can find this as an ingredient in cough syrups and cough drops. The oil from the horehound plant has anti-inflammatory effects and also mucus-thinning effects for the lungs. It relaxes spasms of the bronchial tubes to reduce coughing, clear congestion and soothe sore throats. Horehound also improves digestion, relieving gas and bloating.

Horseradish is known to clear respiratory congestion. This root has a pungent, spicy flavor that also contains Vitamin C, Potassium, Calcium, Iron, and Phosphorous. Horseradish also loosens mucus. Its antiseptic properties also make this root beneficial in treating urinary tract infections.

Poplars are effective in reducing pain and inflammation associated with fevers, headaches, sore throats and arthritis. Also a mild diuretic, it can ease the symptoms of an enlarged prostate and cystitis. When used as an expectorant, poplars help to loosen and expel mucus to relieve cough and congestion.

Violets also contain medicinal properties. This fragrant flower is able to treat symptoms of asthma, colds and bronchitis. The parts of this plant that are used are the leaves and flowers. The seeds were once used in the past but are no longer considered to be useful. The leaves of the violet plant contain Vitamin A and C. In syrup form, violets make a very effective cough medicine. They also have a diuretic effect and can help with water retention.

These are just a few of the plants out there that can help with your symptoms. As with any treatment, you should consult with your physician before beginning.