Medicinal Plants

The profession I want to pursue when I grow up is Nutrition, because since I was little I was very close to my mother's plants. So, today I want to show you how cool it is to know about medicinal plants and their stories. Did you know that rosemary, mint and mastic, as well as spices, are considered plants with therapeutic properties? Like them, dozens more can be used on a daily basis as substitutes for traditional medicines. As an advantage, they have low cost and minimize side effects. But, despite being natural, you need to be aware of some risks, such as the allergies they can cause in certain people. Therefore, always consult your nutritionist before using certain plants. “Just because it’s natural doesn’t mean it’s not harmful, there are toxic and hallucinogenic plants. The use of medicinal plants requires knowledge, especially with regard to how to prepare, dose and time of ingestion”, explains the state coordinator of Integrative and Complementary Practices, Ana Rita Novaes. The use of medicinal plants is ancient and is part of the culture of people around the world. In Espírito Santo it is no different, especially in traditional indigenous, Pomeranian and quilombola communities. The Unified Health System (SUS) itself recognized the importance of this practice and validated a list of more than 70 species with proven efficacy. “Medicinal plants are used according to their specificity, generally those found closest to the environment are used. They are effective, low cost, and are part of the active ingredient in many industrialized medicines”, explains the coordinator. Here in the State, there are several species, with emphasis on aroeira, lemongrass, guava and guaco, which help to alleviate symptoms and treat various diseases, such as respiratory infections and digestive disorders. Other plants, such as rosemary, easily found, have a broader action, helping against problems such as hair loss and lice Now, I will cite some examples of several medicinal plants native to Brazil and their benefits. Rosemary: Circulatory disorders, as an antiseptic and healing agent; Dyspepsia Aloe vera: It has healing, antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral. It is prepared in the form of a gel, applying to the areas affected 1 to 3 times a day. Balm: Anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive Small Boldo: Dyspepsia and heartburn And that's it :D Thank you for reading this far! And I hope you enjoyed learning a little about the wealth of information about medicinal plants. Bye bye!