What are natural herbs?
Natural herbs refer to plants or plant parts that are used for culinary, medicinal, aromatic, or even spiritual purposes. These herbs are often valued for their flavors, fragrances, and potential health benefits. They have been used for centuries by various cultures around the world for cooking, traditional medicine, and other applications.
Ten examples of natural herbs
- Basil: Known for its sweet and savory flavor, this Natural herbs is often used in Mediterranean and Asian cuisines. It also has medicinal properties.
- Mint: With a refreshing and cooling taste, mint is used in teas, desserts, and savory dishes. It is also known for its digestive properties.
- Rosemary: This herb has a woody and aromatic flavor, making it popular in Mediterranean cuisine. It is often used with roasted meats and vegetables.
- Thyme: Thyme has a subtle earthy flavor Natural herbs and is commonly used in soups, stews, and Mediterranean dishes.
- Cilantro/Coriander: Cilantro leaves and coriander seeds come from the same plant. Cilantro has a citrusy flavor and is used in many culinary traditions, while coriander seeds add a warm, spicy element.
- Parsley: With a mild and slightly peppery taste, parsley is often used as a garnish and in various dishes for added freshness.
- Turmeric: Known for its vibrant yellow color and earthy flavor, turmeric is a staple in Indian cuisine and has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Ginger: This Natural herbs root has a spicy and slightly sweet flavor, and it is used in both savory and sweet dishes. Ginger is also known for its potential medicinal benefits.
- Garlic: Used worldwide, garlic adds a pungent and savory flavor to dishes. It is known for its potential health benefits.
- Lavender: While often associated with fragrances and cosmetics, lavender is also used in culinary applications, particularly in desserts and teas.
These are just a few examples of Natural herbs, and there are countless other herbs with diverse flavors and uses. Many cultures have traditional knowledge and practices related to the use of herbs for various purposes, including promoting health and well-being.
10 Nepali Natural herbs Most Used In common illnesses
- Turmeric:
- Adds color to food and helps with various health issues.
- Good for abdominal pain, urinary tract infections, wounds, and more.
- This Natural herbs beneficial for serious conditions like arthritis and skin cancer.
- Keep turmeric (fresh or powder) at home.
- Tulasi (Basil):
- Has religious significance and medicinal properties.
- Treats digestive, respiratory, and cardiovascular issues.
- Boosts the immune system and helps with mental health.
- A must-have herb at home.
- Aloe Vera:
- Great for burns, sunburns, stretch marks, and tans.
- Benefits diabetic patients and aids digestion.
- Keep aloe vera plant at home for these remedies.
- Mint:
- Cooling herb with various health benefits.
- This Natural herbs Treats digestive problems, respiratory issues, and stress.
- Lowers blood pressure and boosts immunity.
- Useful for skin health and acne.
- Coriander:
- Adds taste and health benefits to dishes.
- Boosts the immune system and treats digestive issues.
- Lowers the risk of heart-related diseases and blood sugar levels.
- Keep coriander handy at home.
- Ginger:
- Known as a ‘universal medicine’ in Ayurveda.
- Treats pain, nausea, digestive disorders, and more.
- Essential herb to have at home.
- Garlic:
- Contains allicin, making it anti-bacterial and more.
- Used for cold, flu, digestive issues, and inflammation.
- Worth keeping at home for its medicinal properties.
- Bojo (Acorus calamus):
- Treats gastrointestinal problems, body pain, sore throat, and more.
- This Natural herbs Root (rhizome) is used for various medicinal purposes.
- A must-have herb at home.
- Shatawari (Kurilo):
- Aphrodisiac that improves libido and reproductive health.
- Helpful for infertility issues in both men and women.
- Gurjo (Giloy):
- Antipyretic Natural herbs that improves platelet count in dengue fever.
- Reduces the chances of complications.
- Regular intake of giloy is beneficial.
Some Highlighted Medicinal Plants And Natural herbs of Nepal
- Acorus calamus – Sweet flag, Bojho
- Perennial Natural herbs in wetlands, useful in perfume industry
- Cures toothache, throat pain, digestive disorders, tonsillitis
- Mentha spicata – Spearmint, Pudina
- Aromatic plant with medicinal value
- Cures fever and digestive disorders
- Ocimum sanctum – Holy basil, Tulsi
- Short-lived plant with religious significance
- Cures fever, indigestion, common cold, bronchitis
- Tinospora cordifolia – Heart-leaved moonseed, Gurjo lahara
- Woody climbing shrub with alkaloids, steroids, terpenoids
- Cures jaundice, fever, boosts immune system
- Rauwolfia serpentina – Devil pepper
- Herb in Himalayan regions, rich in reserpine
- Cures systolic hypertension, schizophrenia, insomnia
- Azadirachta indica – Neem tree, Ganja
- Evergreen tree with diverse medicinal uses
- Cures ulcers, ringworm, tuberculosis, leprosy, diabetes
- Bryophyllum pinnatum – Cathedral Bells
- Succulent Natural herbs with triterpenes, flavonoids
- Cures kidney stones, diarrhea, headache
- Cannabis sativa – True hemp, Ganja
- Annual flowering plant with edible parts
- Cures stomachache in moderation
- Terminalia chebula – Chebulic myrobalan, Haroo
- Tropical deciduous tree with medicinal fruits
- Cures vomiting, ulcers, throat pain, bleeding piles, common cold
- Zanthoxylum armatum – Prickly ash, Timur
- Aromatic tree with essential oil
- Cures fever, cholera, dyspepsia, gastritis, toothache
- Swertia chirayita – Chiretta, Chiraito
- Annual/biennial Natural herbs in hilly regions
- Lowers blood pressure, treats malaria, diabetes, inflammation
- Smallanthus sonchifolius – Yacon or Ground apple, Bhuisyau
- Cultivating plant with sweet edible tubers
- Cures diabetes, digestive problems, reduces body weight
- Centella asiatica – Gotu kola, Ghodtapre
- Small herb with edible leaves
- Cures contact dermatitis, throat pain, skin irritation, depression
- Rubus ellipticus – Yellow Himalayan raspberry, Ainselu
- Thorny shrub with edible fruits
- Cures fever, common cold, sore throat, stomachache
- Rhododendron arboreum – Gurans, Laligurans
- Evergreen shrub with dark green leaves and flowers
- Cures headaches, coughs, blood diarrhea
- Osyris wightiana – African sandalwood, Noondhiki
- Common shrub in sub-tropical to tropical regions
- Cures body pain, skin diseases, improves blood circulation
- Phyllanthus emblica – Emblic (gooseberry), Amla
- Deciduous wild tree with greenish-yellow fruits
- Reduces diarrhea, cough, fever, stimulates hair growth
- Psidium guajava – Guava, Amba
- Tropical evergreen tree with edible fruit
- Cures diarrhea, diabetes, inflammation, wounds, rheumatism, stomachache
- Scutellaria discolor – Bicolor Skullcap, Nilo butte ghans
- Herbaceous Natural herbs with purple to white flowers
- Cures tonsillitis, indigestion
- Ageratina adenophora – Crofton weed, Banmara
- Invasive plant with small flowers and unpleasant aroma
- Cures cut wounds
- Momordica balsamina – Balsam apple, Bankarela
- Climber plant with bitter fruits
- Cures wounds, fever, high blood pressure, rheumatism
- Inula cappa – Sheep’s ear, Kanpate
- Shrub with yellow flowers and sheep’s ear-like leaves
- Cures peptic ulcers, throat pain, indigestion, fever, pneumonia
- Cuscuta reflexa – Giant dodder, Pahelo lahara
- Parasitic Natural herbs with no root system
- Cures fever, headache, jaundice, rheumatism
- Drymaria cordata – Tropical chickweed, Abhijalo
- Annual herb with white flowers and weak stems
- Cures colds, snakebites, bronchitis, malaria, wildness
- Citrus limon – Lemon, Kagati
- Perennial Natural herbs with acidic yellow fruits
- Cures scurvy, digestive problems, throat pain, inflammation
- Cinnamomum tamala – Indian bay leaf, Tejpat
- Evergreen tree with aromatic leaves
- Cures indigestion, respiratory problems, diabetes
- Coriandrum sativum – Coriander, Dhaniya
- Herb with edible leaves and seeds
- Cures indigestion, nausea, diarrhea, high cholesterol
- Eupatorium adenophorum – Crofton weed, Banmara
- Invasive shrub with small white flowers
- Cures wounds, cuts, stomachache
- Impatiens glandulifera – Himalayan balsam, Lophante
- Annual plant with pink to purple flowers
- Cures cough, skin infections, fever
- Justicia adhatoda – Malabar nut, Asuro
- Shrub with lance-shaped leaves and white flowers
- Cures cough, asthma, bronchitis, fever
- Morus alba – White mulberry, Tut
- Fast-growing deciduous tree with edible fruits
- Cures diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol
- Oxalis corniculata – Creeping woodsorrel, Amilo
- Perennial Natural herbs with heart-shaped leaves
- Cures inflammation, diarrhea, throat pain, urinary infections
- Pogostemon cablin – Patchouli, Sugandhawal
- Perennial herb with fragrant leaves
- Cures skin problems, anxiety, depression
- Quercus semecarpifolia – Himalayan oak, Khasru
- Large deciduous tree with acorns
- Cures wounds, diarrhea, sore throat
- Rumex nepalensis – Himalayan dock, Baseli
- Perennial plant with lance-shaped leaves
- Cures constipation, skin infections, diarrhea
- Sida cordifolia – Bala, Khareti
- Shrub with heart-shaped leaves and yellow flowers
- Cures rheumatism, fever, inflammation, urinary infections
- Stevia rebaudiana – Stevia, Madhu patra
- Herbaceous plant with sweet leaves
- Natural sweetener for diabetes, high blood pressure
- Tagetes minuta – Muster-John-Henry, Marigold
- Aromatic annual Natural herbs with pungent odor
- Cures skin problems, digestive issues, insect bites
- Trachyspermum ammi – Ajwain, Ajowan
- Annual herb with small, oval-shaped fruits
- Cures indigestion, flatulence, respiratory problems
- Urtica dioica – Stinging nettle, Sisnu
- Herbaceous perennial Natural herbs with stinging hairs
- Cures arthritis, allergies, urinary tract infections
- Verbascum thapsus – Great mullein, Kafal buti
- Biennial plant with fuzzy leaves and yellow flowers
- Cures respiratory problems, earaches, skin infections
- Aloe vera – Aloe vera, Ghyu kumari
- Succulent plant with gel-filled leaves
- Cures burns, skin irritations, constipation
- Shrub with woody stems and yellow flowers
- Cures skin diseases, eye infections, indigestion
- Biennial herb with small, crescent-shaped fruits
- Cures indigestion, flatulence, respiratory problems
- Climber with yellowish flowers and capsule fruits
- Cures anxiety, depression, memory loss, joint pain
- Perennial rhizomatous herb with orange flesh
- Cures inflammation, wounds, digestive problems, arthritis
- Creeping Natural herbs with white flowers and lance-shaped leaves
- Cures hair loss, liver disorders, skin infections
- Perennial herb with yellow flowers
- Cures respiratory problems, digestive disorders, fever
- Aromatic perennial herb with small purple flowers
- Cures respiratory problems, indigestion, skin infections
- Vine with small white flowers and round fruits
- Cures digestive problems, respiratory problems
Lists Of Registered Medicinal Plants And Natural herbs Of Nepal
- Alainchi (Amomum subulatum)
- Amata (Phyllanthus emblica)
- Arandi (Ricinus communis)
- Ashoka (Saraca asoca)
- Asuro (Adhatoda vasica)
- Atis (Aconitum heterophyllum)
- Bajradanti (Polemonium caeruleum)
- Balu (Sida cordifolia)
- Ban lasun (Lilium nepalense)
- Baralikand (Pueraria tuberosa)
- Barro (Terminalia bellirica)
- Bel (Aegle marmelos)
- Bhal~yo (Semecarpus anacardium)
- Bhale-Sunpati (Rhododendron leptothamnus)
- Bhang (Cannabis sativa)
- Bhringaraj (Eclipta prostrata)
- Bhui Amata (Phyllanthus amarus)
- Bhui Amala (Phyllanthus urinaria)
- Bhutkesh (Selinum tenuifolium)
- Bhutkesh (Selinum lenudolium)
- Bikha (Aconitum heterophyllum)
- Bikha (Aconitum spicatum)
- Bikhama (Aconitum balfourii)
- Bilouni (Maesa chisia)
- Bojho (Acorus calamus)
- Champ (Michelia champaca)
- Chhatiwan (Alstonia scholaris)
- Chiraito (Swertia alata)
- Chiraito (Swertia angustifolia)
- Chiraito (Swertia bimaculata)
- Chiraito (Swertia chirayita)
- Chiraito (Swertia ciliata)
- Chiraito (Swertia paniculata)
- Chiraito (Swertia mullicaulis)
- Chitu (Plumbago zeylanica)
- Chopchini (Smilax aspera)
- Chutro (Berberis aristata)
- Chutro (Berberis asiatica)
- Chyuri (Aesandra butyracea)
- Datiwan (Achyranthes aspera)
- Datiwan (Achyranthes bidentata)
- Dhainyaro (Woodfordia fruticosa)
- Dhasingare (Ou/theria fragrans)
- Dhatura (Datura metel)
- Dhatura (Datura stramonium)
- Dhupi (Juniperus communis)
- Dhupi (Juniperus indica)
- Dhupi (Juniperus recurva)
- Dronapuspa (Leucas cephalotes)
- Eklebir (Lobelia pyramidalis)
- Gamdol (Brachycorythis obcordata)
- Ghodtapre (Centella asiatica)
- Ghuchi chyau (Morchella esculenta)
- Ghritkumari (Aloe vera)
- Gobresalla/Talispatra (Abies spectabilis)
- Gokhur (Tribulus terrestris)
- Gujargano (Cissampelos pareira)
- Gurjo (Tinospora sinensis)
- Haledo (Curcuma angustifolia)
- Harchur (Viscum album)
- Harchur (Viscum articulatum)
- Harro (Terminalia chebula)
- Indrajau (Holarrhena pubescens)
- Indrayani (Trichosanthes tricuspidata)
- Jamane mandro (Mahonia nepalensis)
- Jamun (Syzygium cumini)
- Jatamansi (Nardostachys grandiflora)
- Jhyau (Parmelia nepalensis)
- Jhyau (Parmelia cetrata)
- Jhyau (Parmelia nilgherrensis)
- Jhyau (Parmelia tinctorium)
- Jhyau (Usnea thomsonii)
- Jimbu (Allium przewalskianum)
- Jimbu (Allium hypsistum)
- Jiwanti (Ephedra gerardiana)
- Jiwanti (Otochilus porrectus)
- Kachur (Curcuma zedoaria)
- Kakad singhi (insect gall on Pistacia) (Pistacia chinensis)
- Kakad singhi (insect gall on Pistacia) (Pistacia khinjuk)
- Kakoli (Fritillaria cirrhosa)
- Kalo shariva (Ichnocarpus frutescens)
- Kalo shariva (Cryptolepis buchananii)
- Kalo-Bikha (Aconitum jaciniatum)
- Kaphal (Myrica esculenta)
- Khas khas (Vetiveria zizanioides)
- Khayer (Acacia catechu)
- Khirro (Wrightia arborea)
- Koiralo (Bauhinia variegata)
- Kurilo (Asparagus racemosus)
- Kustha (Cosmos speciosus)
- Kutki (Picrorhiza scrophulariiflora)
- Laghu patra (Podophyllum hexandrum)
- Lodh (Symplocos paniculata)
- Maharangi (Maharanga emodi)
- Majitho (Rubia manjith)
- Mothe (Cyperus rotundus)
- Musali (Curculigo orchioides)
- Nagebeli (Lycopodium clavatum)
- Nagkesar (Mesua ferrea)
- Neem (Azadirachta indica)
- Ninnashi (Aconitum gammiei)
- Nisoth (Operculina turpethum)
- Nun dhiki (Osyris wightiana)
- Okhar (Juglans regia)
- Padam puskar (Iris decora)
- Padamchal (Rheum australe)
- Padamchal (Rheum nobile)
- Padbiri (Paederia foetida)
- Painlet/Desi neem (Murraya koenigii)
- Palans (Butea monosperma)
- Panchaunle (Dactylorhiza hatagirea)
- Pangra (Entada phaseoloides)
- Pashanvedh (Bergenia ciliata)
- Pipala (Piper longum)
- Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa)
- Puskaramul (Smilax recemosa)
- Raasna (Pluchea lanceolata)
- Rajbriksha (Cassia fistula)
- Rati gedi (Abrus precatorius)
- Rittha (Sapindus mukorossi)
- Rudraksha (Elaeocarpus sphaericus)
- Sano chilya (Sida rhombifolia)
- Sarpagandha (Rauwolfia serpentina)
- Satuwa (Paris polyphylla)
- Sikakai (Acacia rugata)
- Silphium (Crateva unilocularis)
- Siltimur (Lindera neesiana)
- Simal (Bombax ceiba)
- Simali (Acer negundo)
- Sindhure (Mallotus philippensis)
- Somalata (Ephedra gerardiana)
- Sugandhakokila (Cinnamomum glaucescens)
- Sugandawala (Valeriana jatamansi)
- Sunpati (Rhododendron anthopogon)
- Sutho (Zingiber officinale)
- Talispatra/Loth salla (Taxus baccata L. subsp. wallichiana)
- Talmakhana (Hygrophila auriculata)
- Tanki (Bauhinia purpurea)
- Tatelo (Oroxylum indicum)
- Tejpat/Dalchini (Cinnamomum tamala)
- Thulo Okhati (Asilbe rivularis)
- Timur (Zanthoxylum armatum)
- Tite pati (Artemisia indica)
- Tukiphul (Taraxacum officinale)
- Tulasi (Ocimum tenuiflorum)
- Vayuvidanga (Embelia ribes)
- Vyakur (Dioscorea bulbifera)
- Vyakur (Dioscorea deltoidea)
- Vyakur (Dioscorea prazeri)
- Yarsa Gomba (Cordyceps sinensis)
Benefits of Natural Herbs Top of Form
Here are some potential benefits associated with the use of natural herbs.
- Holistic Approach: Natural herbs are often associated with a holistic approach to health. Many traditional systems of medicine, such as Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine, focus on treating the whole person rather than just the symptoms of a specific illness. This holistic approach may include lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, and stress management.
- Fewer Side Effects: Natural herbs are generally perceived as having fewer side effects compared to some allopathic medications. However, it’s essential to note that herbs can still have interactions with medications and may cause side effects in certain individuals. Consulting with a healthcare professional is crucial to ensure safety.
- Nutritional Support: Some natural herbs provide essential nutrients and can contribute to overall nutritional support. For example, herbs like turmeric, ginger, and garlic are not only used for their medicinal properties but also contain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can support overall health.
- Cultural and Traditional Wisdom: Many cultures have a rich tradition of using herbs for medicinal purposes. Traditional systems of medicine often incorporate knowledge passed down through generations. Some individuals may prefer herbal remedies due to cultural or personal beliefs.
- Personalized Medicine: Herbal remedies are often perceived as being more personalized, as practitioners may tailor treatments based on an individual’s specific health needs and constitution.
- Preventive Care: Herbal remedies are sometimes used for preventive care, focusing on maintaining balance and preventing illness before it occurs. This preventive approach aligns with the idea of promoting overall wellness rather than just treating symptoms.
- Environmental Impact: Cultivating and using natural herbs for medicinal purposes may have a lower environmental impact compared to the production and disposal of certain pharmaceuticals.
Medicinal and Aromatic Natural herbs of Nepal
Medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs) are a diverse group of Natural herbs that have been used for various medicinal, culinary, and aromatic purposes for centuries. These plants contain bioactive compounds with therapeutic properties and are valued for their role in traditional medicine, as well as in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food industries. Here are some key aspects of medicinal and aromatic plants:
- Medicinal Properties:
- Bioactive Compounds: Many medicinal Natural herbs contain bioactive compounds such as alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, and essential oils. These compounds often exhibit pharmacological activities and can have health benefits.
- Traditional Medicine: Various cultures have relied on medicinal Natural herbs for treating ailments and promoting health. Traditional medicine systems, such as Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and indigenous healing practices, often incorporate the use of medicinal plants.
- Aromatic Properties:
- Essential Oils: Aromatic plants often produce essential oils, which are concentrated extracts containing the volatile aroma compounds of the plant. These oils are widely used in perfumes, cosmetics, and aromatherapy.
- Flavoring Agents: Some aromatic plants are used as flavoring agents in the food and beverage industry. Herbs and spices like mint, basil, and rosemary are examples of Natural herbs with both medicinal and aromatic properties.
- Cultivation and Harvesting:
- Cultivation: Many medicinal and aromatic Natural herbs are cultivated in specific regions or climates to optimize their growth and medicinal potency. Sustainable cultivation practices are essential to ensure a stable supply.
- Harvesting: The timing of harvesting is crucial for obtaining maximum potency of bioactive compounds. Harvesting is often done during specific growth stages, such as flowering or fruiting.
- Commercial Importance:
- Pharmaceutical Industry: The pharmaceutical industry relies on medicinal plants as a source of active compounds for the development of drugs. Examples include the use of extracts from the bark of the willow tree (salicin) in the development of aspirin.
- Cosmetic and Perfume Industry: Essential oils derived from aromatic plants are widely used in cosmetics and perfumes. These oils contribute to fragrance and may also have skin-care benefits.
- Conservation and Sustainable Use:
- Biodiversity Conservation: Many MAPs are at risk due to overharvesting and habitat loss. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect these plants and maintain biodiversity.
- Sustainable Harvesting: Adopting sustainable harvesting practices, such as selective harvesting and cultivation, helps ensure the long-term availability of medicinal and aromatic Natural herbs.
- Examples of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants:
- Ginseng: Known for its adaptogenic properties and used in traditional medicine.
- Lavender: Valued for its calming and aromatic properties.
- Turmeric: Contains curcumin, known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
- Eucalyptus: Used for its essential oil, known for respiratory benefits.
Natural Herbs and Herbal Medicine in Nepal
Herbal medicine has a long history in Nepal, deeply rooted in traditional practices that have been passed down through generations. The use of medicinal plants and Natural herbs is an integral part of Nepalese culture, and many people rely on herbal remedies for various health issues. Here are some key aspects of herbal medicine in Nepal:
- Ayurveda:
- Nepal has a rich tradition of Ayurveda, an ancient system of medicine that originated in India. Ayurveda emphasizes the use of natural herbs and plants to maintain balance in the body, mind, and spirit.
- In Nepal, Ayurvedic practitioners use a variety of herbs, minerals, and metals to prepare medicines that are tailored to individual constitutions (doshas). These medicines aim to treat various ailments and promote overall well-being.
- Traditional Healers:
- Many communities in Nepal have traditional healers or shamans who use a combination of rituals, chants, and herbal remedies to address health issues. These healers often have extensive knowledge of local Natural herbs and their medicinal properties.
- Medicinal Plants:
- Nepal is home to a diverse range of flora, and many plants have medicinal properties. Commonly used medicinal Natural herbs in Nepal include neem, turmeric, ginger, amla (Indian gooseberry), tulsi (holy basil), and many more.
- These plants are used in various forms, such as decoctions, powders, pastes, and oils, depending on the ailment being treated.
- Local Practices:
- In rural areas, people often rely on traditional herbal remedies due to limited access to modern healthcare facilities. Knowledge about the use of medicinal plants is often passed down within families and communities.
- Commercialization:
- With the growing interest in natural and alternative medicine, there is an increasing trend of commercializing herbal products in Nepal. Local companies produce and market a variety of herbal medicines, cosmetics, and wellness products.
- Regulation and Research:
- The government of Nepal has taken steps to regulate the herbal medicine industry. There are efforts to document traditional knowledge, promote sustainable harvesting practices, and ensure the safety and efficacy of herbal products.
- Research institutions and universities in Nepal also conduct studies on the medicinal properties of local plants and traditional remedies.
Reference Link
Medicinal and Aromatic Plants – Major Export Products
Traditional herbal medicine in Far-west Nepal
Medicinal plants, traditional medicine, markets