Phytotherapy is a branch of medicine in which plants are used to alleviate and cure minor physiological disorders. Medicinal plants and the preparations made from them can be very useful in certain circumstances, although we should not make the mistake of simply substituting medicinal treatments for natural ones.

When using a medicinal plant, we should always take into account our previous situation (illnesses, physical condition, treatments we are taking at the time) and consult a health specialist. Despite being natural, these remedies are not free from contraindications, side effects or interactions, both with each other and with synthetic medicines.

However, there are certain plants with an indisputable potential to improve, in particular, the most common symptoms that we may face. Below, we will give you a breakdown of the most recommended, useful and safe uses so that you can discover the world of phytotherapy.

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Digestive disorders

Digestive disorders are the order of the day for many people. Whether it is due to the pace of life, a sometimes not entirely balanced diet or complicated physiological conditions, it is very common to hear someone complaining of a tummy ache, constipation or diarrhoea. Fortunately, medicinal plants can be very useful in these cases.
The artichoke is a plant whose leaves are choleretic, increases bile secretion and is useful in the case of poor fat digestion. It also stimulates the regeneration of liver cells and helps regulate weight thanks to its depurative activity. However, it should not be used in the case of gallstones, as stimulation of the gallbladder is contraindicated in these cases.
The substances contained in aloe leaves are known for their soothing properties for the skin, but they are also very useful for the digestive system. It is used as an emollient to soothe irritation and inflammation of the digestive tract. In combination with plantago¸ it can be used to treat constipation.
Boldo leaves contain essential oils and alkaloids with a cholagogue function, i.e. bile stimulant and digestive aid.
Activated charcoal is obtained from coconut shells, and serves as an adsorbent for intestinal gas. This relieves abdominal pain, heartburn and bloating. It also improves occasional diarrhoea.
Milk thistle fruit contains a hepatoprotective complex called silymarin, which acts directly on liver cells, promoting their regeneration and detoxification.
Cascara sagrada fruit has traditionally been used for its laxative properties. It should not be used in children under twelve years of age and, in the case of adults, treatment should not exceed eight days.
Fennel fruit is rich in an essential oil capable of stimulating digestion and reducing heaviness and flatulence.
Ginger root is used to reduce nausea and prevent motion sickness. It also has stimulating effects and increases libido.
The integument of the Plantago seed is rich in mucilage, which forms an unassimilable elastase in contact with water. This increases stool volume and intestinal peristalsis.

Weight control – Overweight

The medicinal plants most closely related in structure and composition to the above are those used for weight control. These include the following…
  • Pineapple: the stem and fruit of the tropical pineapple accelerate digestion thanks to bromelain, which breaks down macro-proteins to speed up their digestion and elimination. This leads to the mobilisation and elimination of fat deposits.
  • Camomile: the bud and the first leaves of the branches are used to eliminate liquids and also lower blood cholesterol levels.
  • Bladderwrack: the bladderwrack stem is rich in trace elements and vitamins, so it helps to cover the body’s basic needs and, with them, reduces appetite. Its iodine content helps to stimulate the thyroid and increase metabolic activity.
  • Glucomannan: Glucomannan is extracted from Konjac root, which is capable of absorbing more than 100 times its weight in water. It fills the stomach to some extent to reduce the amount of food absorbed.
  • Guarana: guarana seed has a high caffeine content, which accelerates fat burning and increases cell metabolism. It also has stimulating properties and generally increases vitality and endurance.
  • Orthosiphon: Orthosiphon leaf is rich in flavonoids, essential oils and potassium. It is a powerful diuretic that helps to eliminate fluids and control weight.