Medicine and treatment of diseases go a long long way back. This is true even of the medicinal herbs used to treat various ailments. The ancient Indian text, the Atharva Veda has many references to medicinal herbs and the various ways they can be used. In ancient times, as there was no standard treatment meted out to take care of ailing people, herbal medicine was put to considerable use.
Treating cuts and wound, treating diseases like malaria and typhoid and treating fevers fell within the purview of the herbal domain. Although people were unaware as to how these herbs actually functioned, they knew that they did provide relief from pain and had a soothing effect on the person who was suffering. This was the primary aim. Later on, when these herbs were boiled, distilled and purified, they were made into pills, which were more effective.
From the bark of the neem tree, which is used to strengthen gums and clean teeth, to its leaves, flowers and fruits that are used to treat various skin disorders, the neem tree is a typical example of medicated wonder. It has anti-bacterial properties, acts as a fungicide, and has been successfully used to cure eczema, psoriasis, and dandruff.
The basil or the 'tulsi' as it is commonly known in India, also has a history dating right into Indian culture. It has always been regarded as having purifying properties. A tea made from it's leaves is very effective in treating throat disorders. The paste made from basil leaves is used in poultices, which are used for wounds and skin disorders. While the seeds of the herb anise are used to tackle flatulence, colic and disturbances of the digestive tract, the herb arnica is used to reduce inflammation, heal bruises and cuts. Anise is a mild herb and is sometimes given to children to be used as an expectorant.
Cinnamon is a herb which almost acts like a catalyst hastening other remedies to work faster. It purifies the blood and also helps to combat infections. Cloves are herbs, which have immense value. The oil of the clove is used to tackle toothaches. They produce sweating when there is a fever and is used to treat whooping cough. The herb eucalyptus has wonderful medicinal properties. The oil is used as an antiseptic to treat gum disease and also prevents infections caused by burns. A mixture of the oil and leaves when steamed helps to cure sinusitis. The leaves and the oil act as insect repellants. Fenugreek is a herb which reduces infections in the lungs. Mixed with lemon and honey it brings down a fever and also supplies the body with nutrients. Like fenugreek, coriander is used as a spice and has medicinal value. It helps in digestion and increases the appetite. When made into a lotion, it is used for rheumatic pain. The oil is used in cosmetics.
Camphor oil made from camphor leaves has been used as an embalming fluid. The crystals have antiseptic and antispasmodic properties. Balms and liniments are used to counter rheumatic and back pain. As a chest rub, it is used to treat bronchitis and lung infections. Celery acts as a cleanser and a diuretic. Its seeds help to get rid of the waste accumulated in the body.
Medicinal herbs have thus formed an inevitable part of our lives. There are more medicinal herbs than have been actually discovered, and the ones that have been discovered have uses and benefits beyond the ones that have been stipulated.
For more articles on ayurvedic herbs, visit Herbal.co.in.
Learn about home remedies commonly used in Indian ayurveda.
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By Rajni Seth
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