Since time immemorial people have tried to find medications to alleviate pain and cure illnesses. In the process healing properties of certain medicinal plants were identified, noted, and conveyed to successive generations.

Today we see a huge usage of medicinal plants across our daily lives: we use them as medicines, as teas, as food, as cosmetic aids and a few are even worshipped. As we see recurring trends in the use of Ayurveda, today natural plants with rich medicinal properties are being preferred over synthetically engineered drugs. Listed below are the top 5 of the most powerful medicinal plants and what’s even better, these are all easily available in a herb-rich country like ours.

1. Turmeric

Being the pedestal for Ayurveda, turmeric has been a staple to Indian culture for thousands of years and is now being abundantly used abroad as well, whether in powdered form, as leaves or as roots. The main compound in turmeric is curcumin, which is extremely antioxidant. Curcumin gives turmeric its anti-inflammatory, anti-septic and anti-carcinogenic properties, and even helps extract beauty benefits from it.

2. Ashwagandha

An ancient medicinal herb with countless health benefits, Ashwagandha is one of the most important elements in Ayurveda and has been in use for over 3,000 years. It is an anti-inflammatory herb and helps lower blood sugar levels, LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides (fat cells). Ashwagandha is best known for reducing stress and anxiety levels, and for fighting depressive disorders. This multi-functional herb also protects our nerve cells by promoting antioxidant activity, thus boosting brain functioning and memory.

3. Ginger

Popularly known as a superfood in the West, ginger contains gingerol, which gives it multiple medicinal characteristics. Besides containing powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-diabetic properties, ginger also helps with osteoarthritis (OA). Ginger enhances brain functioning and reduces the risk of Alzheimer’s, all the while being a risk-reducing agent for infections. It’s a simple remedy for indigestion, headaches, menstrual pains, cold & cough and nausea especially that caused during pregnancy or chemotherapy.

4. Tulsi (Holy Basil)

Aptly called the Queen of Herbs, different parts of the Holy Basil or Tulsi are used to cure a wide range of ailments, from bronchitis and malaria to eczema, nausea, stress, cough, hair loss, stomach ulcers and even insect bites. It has a high nutritional value and has antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Incorporating Tulsi into our diets can prove to be extremely beneficial for our bodies and lifestyle.

5. Flax Seeds

Loaded with nutrients, flax seeds are antioxidant and anti-inflammatory and can even prevent colon cancer, as they are rich in Lignans (anti-carcinogenic plant compounds). Proper dietary intake of flax seeds can help reduce obesity and blood pressure, and can also help control blood sugar levels and cholesterol. Flax seeds are rich in protein too.  

Note: Though most medicinal herbs help improve your health with minimal side effects most of them haven’t been tested for safety for those who are vulnerable or with any dietary/health restrictions. Moreover, the proper dosage must be considered before intake.