Medicinal Uses for Trees & Plants

The roots, leaves, bark, fruit and blossoms of plants and trees have been used for medicinal purposes since before recorded history. Teas, tinctures, poultices and extracts made from countless plants are used to soothe sore throats, boost immunity, ease congestion and relieve pain throughout the world. Though most medicines used in the United States today are synthetic pharmaceuticals, cultures around the world use medicines derived from trees and plants. In fact, according to the World Health Organization, approximately 80 percent of people worldwide use herbal medicine in some form for at least some of their health care issues.

Willow Tree Bark

Brewed in teas or taken in tinctures, willow tree bark is used to treat pain and inflammation caused by tendinitis, osteoarthritis, bursitis and lower back pain. Willow tree bark contains salicin, a chemical used in the manufacture of aspirin.

Eucalyptus

The leaves of eucalyptus trees and shrubs are commonly used to treat numerous congestion and coughs. Eucalyptus is found in cough syrups, vapor rubs and lozenges. It can also be brewed into teas or taken as gargles to relieve sore throat pain. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center website, eucalyptus is also a traditional diabetes treatment.

St. Johns Wort

A common herbal treatment for mild to moderate depression, St. Johns wort has been used as a treatment for nervous disorders since the days of the ancient Greeks. It can also be used topically to treat wounds, burns, eczema and hemorrhoids, due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Grown as a flowering shrub, medicinal St. Johns wort is available in tablet, capsule, powder, lotion and tincture form.

Saw Palmetto

Extract derived from saw palmetto berries is often used to treat various urinary issues. Some also believe it can boost male libido, though that hasnt been proven. It is most often used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia, or benign enlargement of the prostate gland. It is available in tablet, powder, capsule and dried berry form.

Aloe

Used to treat an array of skin ailments, including burns, wounds, psoriasis and even genital herpes, aloe can also be used as a laxative and may help lower blood sugar in patients with diabetes. Aloe is commonly kept as a houseplant. It is administered by breaking off portions of the leaves and applying the gel directly to wound. It is also available in tablet, capsule, lotion and ointment form.