Oak Gall Tree, Downy Oak, Gall Nut
Latin name
Quercus infectoria
General information
The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India recommends Oak Gall to stop heavy menstrual bleeding, to treat dry and itchy vaginal skin and for dental inflammation. The 2008 article ‘Antioxidant Potential of Galls of Quercus Infectoria’ in the Internet Journal of Pharmacology, revealed that the extracts of Oak Gall have potent antioxidant properties.
Key therapeutic benefits
- Dhub Grass is beneficial in treating gynecological disorders.
- The herb is useful as a gastrointestinal toner.
- When applied topically, the herb relieves dental inflammation.
Orchid Tree, Buddhist Bauhinia, Mountain Ebony
Latin name
Bauhinia variegata Linn. (Caesalpiniaceae)
General information
Buddhist Bauhinia is found in abundance in Punjab and Western Assam. It is also cultivated in gardens across India. It is often referred to as ‘poor man’s orchid’ due to the orchid-like appearance of its flower.
The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India has documented the use of the stem bark in treating lymphadenitis and goiter. It is also helpful in treating skin diseases and stomach disorders.
Key therapeutic benefits
- The plant treats skin diseases, ulcers and leprosy.
- Buddhist Bauhinia is known to soothe gastrointestinal problems like, dysentery and diarrhea.
- It can also arrest hemorrhoids.
Physic Nut, Bonduc Fruit, Fever Nut
Latin name
Caesalpinia bonducella (Linn.) Flem., C. bonduc (Linn.) Roxb.
General information
Bonduc Fruit is also known as a Fever Nut, due to its antipyretic properties.
Key therapeutic benefits
- The plant treats skin diseases, ulcers and leprosy.
- Bonducin is known to soothe gastrointestinal problems like, dysentery and diarrhea.
- It can also arrest hemorrhoids.
Peppermint
Latin name
Mentha piperata
General information
Known for its strong aroma which is used to flavor condiments, teas and desserts, Peppermint is listed in The Pharmacopoeia of the United States of America.
The essential oil of Peppermint has many therapeutic benefits. It has aromatic, stimulant, stomachic and carminative properties and is used for allaying nausea, flatulence and vomiting.
Key therapeutic benefits
- Peppermint alleviates stomach spasms and colicky diarrhea.
- The herb is an anti-inflammatory agent that is beneficial in rheumatic joint aches.
- Peppermint is also helpful in treating respiratory disorders. It functions as an expectorant in bronchitis.
Persian Rose
Latin name
Rosa damascene, Rosa centifolia
General information
Identified by its pleasing aroma, Persian Rose was introduced to the Middle East more than 800 years ago. Persian Rose water and oil have a number of therapeutic benefits that have been documented in various medicinal Middle Eastern texts.
Persian Rose water is a used in beauty treatments as it hydrates, softens and promotes skin healing. Recent studies have shown that Persian Rose oil is beneficial in delaying premature skin aging.
Key therapeutic benefits
- Persian Rose water is a cooling agent for eyes and skin.
- The flower, when used in hair care products, increases blood flow to the scalp. This action nourishes and strengthens hair follicles, which prevents hair loss.
- Peppermint is also helpful in treating respiratory disorders. It functions as an expectorant in bronchitis.
- Persian Rose oil and water are used in various skincare products as it is known to restore skin vitality.
Pistachio
Latin name
Pistacia vera
General information
Pistachio is an extremely nutritious nut, which has been wildly used in desserts in South East Asia.
Amongst its many therapeutic benefits, pistachios are an excellent source of dietary fiber. The U.S. Dietary Guidelines Committee recommends a dietary fiber intake of about 14 grams per 1,000 calories, but consumption studies have indicated that Americans typically consume only half of the recommended amount. As a good source of fiber, Pistachios can help meet this goal, providing 12% of the daily requirement per serving.
Extremely low in calories, Pistachios are ideal health snacks.
Key therapeutic benefits
- Eating pistachios regularly may help to lower total cholesterol as well as LDL or ‘bad cholesterol’ and increase HDL or ‘good cholesterol’ levels in the blood. Research studies suggest that the Mediterranean diet that is rich in dietary fiber, monounsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants can help prevent coronary artery disease and strokes by favoring a healthy blood lipid profile (Source: http://www.nutrition-and-you.com/pistachio.html)
- New research has shown that a diet rich in Pistachio nuts improves sexual function in men with symptoms of erectile dysfunction.
Pomegranate
Latin name
Punica granatum
General information
Pomegranate is grown all over India and generally cultivated in the last quarter of the year.
The seeds of Pomegranate are a source of many essential nutrients. When eaten, the seeds leave a cooling effect in the abdomen and purify blood. Full of sucrose and glucose, Pomegranate juice is a thirst quencher and energy booster. Studies have claimed that the fruit also possesses cardiotonic properties, maintaining overall heart health.
Key therapeutic benefits
- Pomegranate juice naturally reduces dental plaque.
- The fruit is beneficial in treating piles, diarrhea, dysentery, constipation and stomach worms.
Red Poppy, Corn Poppy
Latin name
Papaver rhoeas
General information
Corn Poppy or Red Poppy is a symbol of Remembrance Day, a memorial day observed in the Commonwealth countries to pay homage to the soldiers who died in duty during the First World War. It is a symbol of eternal love in Persian literature.
Corn Poppy contains alkaloids similar to that of Opium Poppy, but in a much milder form. Its health benefits include relieving anxiety and stress, suppressing cough and relieving pain. In skincare ingredients, Corn Poppy acts as an emollient and soothes the skin.
Key therapeutic benefits
- Corn Poppy is known to relieve mild pain.
- The flower is beneficial in the treatment of asthma and other respiratory disorders, including whooping cough and bronchitis, according to The U.S. Library of Medicine.
- It is a mild relaxant and sedative that depresses the central nervous system.
Rauwolfia
Latin name
Rauwolfia serpentine (Apocynaceae) Benth. ex kurz.
General information
The Sanskrit name for Rauwolfia, Sarpagandha, means ‘smelling like a snake’, which refers to the herb’s strong odor. The herb has a number of therapeutic benefits and has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries.
Rauwolfia is a central nervous system stimulant and also an anti-hypertensive. Its roots are known to treat intestinal disorders and also stimulate uterine contractions.
A number of different species of the Rauwolfia plant are found all over India.
Key therapeutic benefits
- Rauwolfia is a key herb in the treatment of mild to moderate hypertension.
- It is also beneficial in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders like cholera and colic.
- The herb is also helpful in treating gynecological disorders like leukorrhea.
Rohida Tree
Latin name
Tecomella undullata/Tecoma stan/Bignonia undulata
General information
The Rohida Tree’s Sanskrit name, Rohitaka, means ‘the healer’, which refers to the herb’s therapeutic benefits.
The tree’s extracts are known to be useful in healing liver and spleen ailments, superficial wounds and blood disorders.
Key therapeutic benefits
- Rohida Tree extracts are beneficial in treating liver and spleen diseases.
- The herb promotes wound healing and detoxifies the blood.
Rosemary
Latin name
Rosmarinus officinalis
General information
Rosemary is a popular culinary herb used to flavor food. Its distinct aroma has been used in medicines and perfumes for centuries.
Rosemary has muscle relaxant and calming properties, which relieve anxiety and tension. It is also an an excellent skin rejuvenative. Rosemary is used to treat dandruff, premature balding and other scalp infections.
An exotic leafy evergreen shrub, Rosemary is cultivated in gardens for its pleasantly fragrant leaves.
Key therapeutic benefits
- Rosemary is a beneficial ingredient in haircare products as it cleans hair follicles and promotes hair growth.
- The herb improves blood circulation throughout the body and rejuvenates the skin.
- As a central nervous system depressant, it is known to calm nerves, ease pain and reduce tension in the body.
Red Pepper, Chilli
Latin name
Capsicum annuum (Linn.), C. frutescens (C.B.Clarke), C. purpureum (Roxb.), C. minimum (Roxb.)
General information
Chilli or Red Pepper is a rich source of essential vitamins and nutrients. The red pepper variety was first cultivated in South and Central America more than 5,000 years ago. The herb has a host of medicinal benefits. It reduces painful inflammation upon topical application, is a powerful detoxifier and maintains heart health. The herb is under the scanner in various research institutes worldwide for inherent anticancer compounds.
Key therapeutic benefits
- Chillies are detoxifiers which help the body get rid of accumulated toxins.
- The presence of folic acid and vitamin B in Chillies reduces the risk of heart disease.
- Externally applied, the herb alleviates joint pain as a result of rheumatoid arthritis.
Succory, Chicory, Wild Endive
Latin name
Cichorium intybus (Linn.) (Asteraceae)
General information
Chicory is a Mediterranean herb that has been used as a coffee filler or substitute. It contains no caffeine and has a chocolate-like flavor. Added to coffee, Chicory root counteracts the effects of caffeine and helps digestion.
Key therapeutic benefits
- The herb is helpful in treating an enlarged liver and protects against alcohol-induced hepatic damage.
- Due to the presence of compounds that are central nervous system stimulants, Chicory is used to treat nervous disorders such as anxiety.
- The herb is known to lower blood sugar levels.
Sweet Flag, Calamus, Sweet Root
Latin name
Acorus calamus (Linn. ) (Araceae)
General information
According to Dr. James Duke in the CRC Handbook of Medicinal Herbs, Sweet Flag has a long history of use, dating back at least 4,000 years as a product of commerce in Southeast Asia. Its oil, extracted from the rhizomes and roots, possesses antispasmodic and carminative properties. The oil is used to treat stomach ailments and mental debility. Joint pains and aches resulting from rheumatism and arthritis are also relieved by Calamus oil. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India indicates the use of the dried rhizomes as a brain tonic to strengthen memory and to treat psychoneurosis and epilepsy.
Key therapeutic benefits
- Calamus improves blood circulation and alleviates swelling. It also relieves pain and inflammation.
- The herb is recommended as a brain tonic, which improves memory and is helpful in treating epilepsy.
- It is also used to treat stomach ailments such as chronic diarrhea, dysentery and abdominal tumors.
Saffron
Latin name
Crocus sativus Linn. (Iridaceae)
General information
Saffron is one of the most expensive spices in the world. Revered for its flavor and color, the herb is an important culinary ingredient in Middle Eastern, Spanish and Indian cuisine. Native to Southern Europe, Saffron is cultivated in Spain, Italy, France and Iran.
Saffron has a number of therapeutic benefits. It rejuvenates the skin and is beneficial in treating respiratory conditions. The herb can also be used as a nervine sedative and as an emmenagogue.
Key therapeutic benefits
- Research has shown that safranal, found in Saffron, has antidepressant properties, which are beneficial in the treatment of trauma and stress.
- The herb has been used as an aphrodisiac to treat male sexual debility.
- It is an antipyretic that lowers fever.
Salep Orchid
Latin name
Orchis mascula
General information
Legend has it that witches administered a drink made from the fresh tubers of Salep Orchid to promote true love and a drink brewed with its withered tubers to cure lovesickness!
In Ayurveda, Salep Orchid has traditionally been used as an aphrodisiac and a nervine tonic.
Key therapeutic benefits
- As an aphrodisiac, Salep Orchid is beneficial in treating male sexual disorders like erectile dysfunction and impotence.
- It is a nervine tonic that treats stress and mental disorders.
Sal Tree
Latin name
Shorea robusta
General information
Sal Tree is commonly found in all parts of India. In Hinduism and Buddhism, the tree has sacred significance and is worshipped on special days.
The resin of the tree has astringent properties, which are beneficial in the treatment of diarrhea and dysentery. It is also an important ingredient in herbal ointments for skin diseases and ear ailments.
Key therapeutic benefits
- The astringent properties of Sal Tree are beneficial in treating stomach disorders like diarrhea and dysentery.
- On topical application, Sal Tree extracts heal skin and ear infections.
- It is also a potent hair and skin cleanser.
Toothbrush Tree, Mustard Tree
Latin name
Salvadora persica
General information
The twigs of Miswak have been used as a natural toothbrush for centuries. In fact, the World Health Organization has also promoted its use for oral hygiene.
A clinical study on Miswak revealed that patient using Miswak twigs as an adjunct to tooth brushing exhibited significant improvement in gingival health and plaque reduction.
(Source: J Indian Soc Periodontol. 2012 Jan-Mar; 16(1): 84-88).
Key therapeutic benefits
- Miswak is known to prevent tooth decay.
- It is also beneficial in the treatment of toothache.
- Miswak twigs are helpful in combating halitosis or bad breath.
Tinospora Gulancha, Gulancha Tinospora
Latin name
Tinospora cordifolia
General information
Guduchi is a part of the rasayanas (traditional rejuvenators and important daily tonics) category of Ayurvedic plants. As per the Charaka Samhita, Ayurveda’s primary text, it is a medhya rasayana or mental rejuvenative.
The herb supports the normal function of the immune system by maintaining optimal levels of white blood cells like macrophages. The plant is also used in dyspepsia and various types of fever.
Key therapeutic benefits
- The herb helps increase the effectiveness of the protective white blood cells and builds up the body's own defence mechanism.
- Guduchi is useful as a diuretic, helps to remove urinary stones and assists in the management of urinary disorders including urinary tract infections.
- It is helpful in treating liver damage, viral hepatitis and alcohol, medical or chemical poisoning.
Tea Tree, Cajuput Tree
Latin name
Melaleuca leucadendron (Linn.)
General information
The essential oil of the Cajuput Tree is obtained by using steam to distill the plant leaves. Traditionally, the leaves of this plant have been used for healing skin cuts, burns and infections. Recent studies have revealed its antifungal property, making it an important ingredient in treating scalp infections like dandruff. Cajuput Oil is also helpful in treating respiratory problems.
Key therapeutic benefits
- Common sore throats, coughs, runny nose and severe respiratory ailments such as asthma, tuberculosis, and bronchitis can be treated with Cajuput Oil.
- The oil is has antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties, which quickly heal superficial wounds.
Tamarisk
Latin name
Tamarix gallica auct., Dyer in part, non Linn. (Tamaricaceae)
General information
Tamarisk, which is found in abundance in North India, has laxative and antihemolytic properties. The herb is often administered for constipation.
Key therapeutic benefits
- As a laxative, Tamarisk is beneficial in the treatment of constipation.
- It is also useful in bleeding disorders like menorrhagia and rectal bleeding.
Teri Pods
Latin name
Caesalpinia digyna Rottl.
General information
Teri Pods are large, prickly shrubs, which grow in abundance in the Indian states of Andhra Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, as well as the Eastern Ghats. The roots possess astringent, antipyretic and antioxidant properties.
Key therapeutic benefits
- As an antioxidant, Teri Pods are revered as a tonic and physical rejuvenative.
- As an antipyretic, it lowers fever.
- Teri Pods are also astringent, which, on topical application, heal wounds more quickly.
Tomato
Latin name
Solanum lycopersicum, Lycopersicon esculentum
General information
Tomato is an important culinary ingredient that is often eaten raw. The fruit is also revered for its therapeutic benefits. It is a potent antioxidant, a rich source of vitamins and minerals, lowers cholesterol, revitalizes the skin and maintains gastrointestinal health.
Key therapeutic benefits
- Tomato is an important culinary ingredient that is often eaten raw. The fruit is also revered for its therapeutic benefits. It is a potent antioxidant, a rich source of vitamins and minerals, lowers cholesterol, revitalizes the skin and maintains gastrointestinal health.
- The fruit prevents serum lipid oxidation, which protects against cardiovascular disease.
- Rich in vitamins and minerals, Tomato is a rejuvenative that maintains overall health.
Touch Me Not, Sensitive Plant
Latin name
Mimosa pudica Mimosaceae
General information
When touched or shaken, the leaves of Touch Me Not droop inwards only to reopen a little later. The plant is also widely used in traditional medicine to treat diarrhea, sinusitis and glandular swellings.
Key therapeutic benefits
- A herbal composition made from the extracts of Touch Me Not is beneficial in treating diarrhea and dysentery.
- It relieves symptoms of respiratory disorders like asthma.
- The plant provides symptomatic relief in fistula, piles and glandular swellings.
Walnut
Latin name
Juglans regia Linn.
General information
Eaten in its raw state, Walnut has a host of therapeutic benefits. Recent studies have shown that Walnuts contain a large amount of fatty acids, which are known to reduce triglyceride levels.
Walnut also contains a wealth of other nutrients, which include vitamins B and E and fiber. Apart from the nut itself, Walnut shells act as exfoliating micro-particles and contain acids that are antiseptic and astringent. Walnut kernels are often added to exfoliating scrubs.
Key therapeutic benefits
- Walnuts are known to lower cholesterol levels.
- Walnut kernels also act as exfoliating agents, which cleanse the and eliminate toxins.
White Leadwort
Latin name
Plumbago zeylanica Linn. (Plumbaginaceae)
General information
White Leadwort has been mentioned in travelogues by European writers on Indian herbs. The herb has a number of widely therapeutic properties, when combined with other herbs. White Leadwort is an anti-inflammatory, stimulates the gastro-intestinal tract and has antiseptic properties.
Key therapeutic benefits
- As an anti-inflammatory, a poultice made with White Leadwort soothes muscle and joint pains.
- Due to its antiseptic property, the herb speeds up the wound healing process.
- It also stimulates the mucus membrane of the digestive organs, which treats gastrointestinal disorders.
White Lily
Latin name
Lilium polyphyllum
General information
White Lily is grows in abundance in the Indian states of Uttaranchal and Himachal Pradesh. Blended with other herbs, White Lily has a number of therapeutic benefits. It is a tonic for general health, and, at the same time, is used for the treatment of respiratory disorders.
Key therapeutic benefits
- The plant is useful in treating respiratory disorders like bronchial asthma and cough.
- It is also a rejuvenative and an immunity booster.
- White Lily’s soothing and astringent properties protect the skin. It is a popular ingredient in facial creams.
Wild Cane
Latin name
Arundo donax
General information
Wild Cane, native to the Mediterranean region, is found in abundance in Kashmir, Assam and the Nilgiris. The perennial grass can grow up to 20 feet in height. The rhizome of Wild Cane is known for its diaphoretic, diuretic and galactagogue properties.
Key therapeutic benefits
- As a galactagogue, Wild Cane stimulates milk secretion in mammals.
- As a diuretic and diaphoretic, the herb flushes out toxins from the body.
Wild Indigo
Latin name
Tephrosia purpurea
General information
The Sanskrit name of Wild Indigo, Sarapunkha, is a combination of two words—arrow and wings. This refers to the physical appearance of the plant. If both the ends of its leaf are held and pulled, edges like that of an arrow are formed (Source: www.herbalcureindia.com).
The plant is beneficial in treating skin eruptions and has insecticidal properties.
Key therapeutic benefits
- Wild Indigo promotes skin healing. The oil from the seeds of the plant are beneficial in treating skin eruptions, eczema, scabies and leprosy.
- A poultice made from the plant acts as an insect-repellant.
Winter Cherry
Latin name
Withania somnifera Dunal (Solanaceae)
General information
Literally translated, the Sanskrit name for Winter Cherry, Ashvagandha, means ‘the smell and strength of a horse’. Winter Cherry is a nervine tonic, an antioxidant and also possesses anti-inflammatory properties. It has been used in Ayurveda to boost the immune system and promote overall well-being.
Key therapeutic benefits
- Winter Cherry is an unique herb with antistress and adaptogenic properties that improves physical and mental fitness and helps with daily stress management.
- It is a powerful antioxidant, which scavenges free radicals in cells that are responsible for premature aging.
- Winter Cherry has proven anti-inflammatory activity, which helps in the management of inflammatory joint disorders.
Yellow Berried Nightshade
Latin name
Solanum xanthocarpum Schrad & Wendl., S.surattense (Solanaceae) Syn. Burm. L., S.virginianum
General information
Yellow Berried Nightshade is an extremely vital herb in Hindu medicinal practice. Revered for its therapeutic properties, the herb is found in many parts of India.
Yellow Berried Nightshade is one of the chief ingredients in Dashamoola Rasayanam, an Ayurvedic preparation for the treatment of respiratory ailments. The herb is also a digestive and a carminative, which facilitates the treatment of gastrointestinal problems.
Key therapeutic benefits
- The herb is helpful in treating respiratory disorders like bronchial asthma, cough and bronchitis.
- Yellow Berried Nightshade facilitates the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders like constipation and flatulence, because of to its laxative and carminative properties.
Yarrow, Milfoil
Latin name
Achillea millefolium Linn. (Asteraceae)
General information
Yarrow, found in the Western Himalayas from Kashmir to Kumaon, is revered for its healing properties. It is said that the herb’s Latin name, Achillea millefolium dates back to the mythical figure Achilles, who used the herb for healing wounds.
Yarrow is a potent styptic, which stops bleeding and heals skin quickly. It is often used in herbal remedies designed to treat heavy bleeding from menstrual periods to bleeding ulcers. TheGerman Commission E recommends Yarrow in dyspeptic ailments like mild spasms and ailments of the gastrointestinal tract.
Key therapeutic benefits
- As an anti-hemorrhoid, Yarrow stops internal and external bleeding.
- The herb is also helpful in treating gastrointestinal disorders like dyspepsia and spastic pain in the stomach.
Zeodary
Latin name
Curcuma zedoaria
General information
Zeodary bears a strong resemblance to Ginger, but has a less strong aroma. The herb is native to India as well as Indonesia, where it is ground to a powder and added to curries or used in its fresh form.
The herb is a gastrointestinal tract stimulant, which aids digestion and relieves colic pains. The essential oil from dried Zeodary roots is used in perfume and soap fabrication.
Key therapeutic benefits
- The herb is helpful in stomach disorders like flatulent colic and ulcers.
- It is also a blood purifier, which eliminates toxins.
