Let’s continue our journey into the wonders of nature and focus today on aromatic and medicinal plants. We’ll learn who they are and explore a few examples, so the next time you want to connect with them or need their help, you can do so with confidence.
Aromatic Plants
These plants get their name from the essential oils that give them their unique scents. These oils are often produced in the plant’s flowers, leaves, or other parts.
How can they help us?
- Cooking: They add the perfect flavor to our dishes. Examples: cilantro, oregano, and mint.
- Natural repellents: Many of these beautiful plants help keep our homes insect-free. Examples: citronella and rosemary.
Top 5 to grow at home: basil, cilantro, parsley, mint, and thyme.
Medicinal Plants
Known for their therapeutic properties, these plants have been traditionally used to prevent or treat illnesses.
How can they help us?
- Remedies: Used in teas, tinctures, or ointments for common ailments. For example, aloe vera, when applied as an ointment, soothes burns and skin problems.
- Supplements: Consumed dried or powdered to maintain health. For example, ginseng boosts energy and the immune system.
Top 5 to grow at home: rue, ginger, calendula, echinacea, and stevia.
It’s important to note that many of these plants can fit into both categories, as their essence also has medicinal properties. For example:
- Lavender: Its delightful, relaxing scent is well-known, but its essential oil also helps heal wounds.
- Mint: Its fresh fragrance is invigorating, but as a tea, it aids digestion and relieves headaches.
That’s all for today’s exploration. Stay tuned for our next article to learn more about the wonders of nature!
References:
Aguirre-Dugua, X., Castillo-Juárez, I., & Ruiz-Posadas, L. del M. (2022). Usos actuales y potencial de las plantas aromáticas y medicinales. Agro-Divulgación, 2 (2).
Oreopoulou, A., Tsimogiannis, D., & Oreopoulou, V. (2018). Extraction of Polyphenols From Aromatic and Medicinal Plants: An Overview of the Methods and the Effect of Extraction Parameters. (pp. 243-259). https://doi.org/10.1016/b978-0-12-813768-0.00025-6
