Top 10 Herbal Ingredients Backed By Science

Herbal Ingredients
Category: Herbal ingredients
Posted By: Greenjeeva

How many times you have been advised by your acquaintances to go HERBAL? Ring a bell? At least once in everybody’s lifetime, there comes a moment where you get such advice. But now the question arises as to why this craze has taken over the world? 

Well! According to the estimation of WHO or the World Health Organization, there are around 21,000 species of plants with medicinal potential (1). Furthermore, the organization also estimates that about 80% of people around the world rely on herbal medicines at least for primary health care. 

To add fuel to the fire, people from the prehistoric period used plants for medicinal purposes. Ancient Ayurveda, Unani, Egyptians, and Chinese writings are evidence where people used herbs for more than 4000 years. 

So, without further delay, let's understand the benefits of some herbal ingredients or plants with miraculous medicinal properties. 

Turmeric
1. Turmeric

The famous spice, turmeric can be found in almost every kitchen around the globe. Thanks to the spice, you get that nice yellow color in your mouth-watering curries. As a matter of fact, turmeric is used for thousands of years in India as a spice as well as a medicinal herb.

Recently, science has also begun to back up the long-time secret of Indians. The researches reveal the herb poses a compound known by the name curcuminoids and the most important of them is curcumin (2).

Alternatively, you can take organic turmeric powder or supplements with significant curcumin in order to experience its full effects. There are so many benefits that you can avail of from this magical spice:

  • The bioactive constituents present in turmeric contains anti-inflammatory properties (3).
  • It can boost the antioxidant capacity of the body (3).
  • Improved brain and heart function (4).
  • Studies on its effects on diseases like cancer, Alzheimer’s, and Arthritis (5).
Fenugreek
2. Fenugreek

Fenugreek plant grows in many parts of Asia and Europe whose leaves are also edible and seeds are world-famous for their medicinal use. The first recorded usage of fenugreek dates to around 1500 BC in Egypt. Likewise, across South Asia and the middle east, fenugreek seeds are used as medicine and spice.

However, you can buy organic fenugreek seed powder as a spice, tea, skin cream, or even as supplements in liquid or concentrated form to get the most advantages. So, here are the benefits of fenugreek:

  • Blood sugar regulation (6).
  • Might protect the liver from toxins (7).
  • Herb with anticancer properties (8).
Garcinia
3. Garcinia

Can you guess what is the latest craze for weight loss these days? It is none other than Garcinia cambogia, an exotic fruit. It is grown in various parts of India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, and Africa.

The other names of this fruit are Malabar tamarind, brindal berry, pot tamarind, etc. It has a close resemblance to a multilobed pumpkin.

People often pickle it, use it as a condiment, or take garcinia extract powder supplements. And due to its low-fat content, it is also used as ghee substitute. It has lots of benefits such as:

Ginger
4. Ginger

One of the healthiest and delicious spices, ginger is loaded with bioactive compounds and nutrients with powerful health benefits.

Some benefits are even backed by scientific studies too. It belongs to the family of Zingiberaceae and is related closely to turmeric.

  • Research reveals that ginger can be effective in conditions like nausea (11).
  • A study demonstrated that consuming ginger in limited quantity reduced soreness and muscle pain significantly (12).
  • Anti-inflammatory effects of ginger extract might help in osteoarthritis (13).
  • Organic ginger extract might help in chronic indigestion (14).
Bacopa
5. Bacopa

Bacopa Monnieri or Brahmi is one of the staple plants in Ayurvedic medicines. The plant grows in wet and tropical environments and can thrive underwater.

Ayurveda uses this herb for thousands of years for different purposes such as improving memory, alleviating anxiety, etc.

One of the bioactive constituents present in bacopa is bacosides which is believed to possess powerful medicinal properties. Hence, it makes bacopa extract powder beneficial for health. The benefits of Bacopa Monnieri are:

  • It contains powerful compounds with antioxidant properties to save the body from harmful free radicals (15).
  • Test tube researches reveal that the herb can diminish the release of cytokines, pro-inflammatory molecules (16).
  • Research on bacopa suggests that it could help in enhancing brain function (17).
Bamboo
6. Bamboo

The “King of forest vegetables”, as considered in Japan, Bamboo shoots are the tallest member in the family of grass, Bambusoideae. They are amongst the fastest growing plants on this planet that are highly nutritious and edible.

Many Asian countries like India, Japan, China, Nepal, Indonesia, Taiwan, etc. consume bamboo shoots and bamboo extract powder in a variety of dishes. The possible health benefits of bamboo are:

  • Bamboo shoots are low in calories, carbs, and sugar. It becomes an ideal food for you if you want to shred some kilos and still get the feeling of a fuller stomach.
  • Some research suggests that phytosterols along with phytonutrients in bamboo shoots can dissolve LDL or “bad cholesterol” in the body (18).
  • Bamboo shoots have vitamins and minerals in large amounts that can strengthen your body from the inside out.
  • Researches also showcase that bioactive constituents present in bamboo have anti-inflammatory as well as analgesic properties (19).
Boswellia
7. Boswellia

Also goes by the name Indian Frankincense, Boswellia is an herbal extract from the tree Boswellia serrata. Boswellia extract resins have been in use for centuries in the folk medicines of Asia and Africa.

You can find the herb as Boswellia serrata extract powder, resin, cream, or pill. Many believe the herb could possibly help in inflammatory illnesses. There are so many researches going on to test the efficacy of Boswellia in a variety of health conditions.

  • Research suggests that Boswellia might reduce inflammation and help in IBD. Because it contains Boswellic acid which can inhibit leukotrienes formation in the body (20).
  • Studies on Boswellia on osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis reflect that it might reduce the inflammation and pain in these conditions (21).
  • A study also highlighted that people who took Boswellia had reduced indicators and symptoms of bronchial asthma (22).
Green Tea
8. Green Tea

One of the healthiest beverages on this planet is green tea, without a doubt. The herb is loaded with nutrients and antioxidants that can have a powerful effect on your body.

You can see a lot of advertisements on green tea leaf extract powder for weight loss. Because right from your skin to body, green tea can cover it all. Let’s understand why green tea is so much popular among people of all ages.

  • Green tea is a rich source of bioactive compounds that help in improving health. It contains polyphenols that reduce inflammation and even have anti-cancer properties (23).
  • Caffeine is one of the key ingredients of green tea which is a stimulant. Intensive studies say that it can contribute to brain function, vigilance, mood, memory, and reaction time. (24)
  • Green tea can increase the fat-burning process and improve physical performance as per clinical trials. (25)
  • It has antioxidant properties and can protect the brain in old age. (26)
Aloe Vera
9. Aloe Vera

What is your favorite DIY when you get sunburns? Is it Aloe Vera? Well, it must be because the herb has amazing properties that can help you in many ways other than sunburn relief and home décor.

The plant has been in use since ancient times in Egypt, Africa, and many tropical countries. The universal plant has so many health benefits:

Gymnema sylvestre
10. Gymnema sylvestre

Gymnema sylvestre is native to the forest in the tropical climates of India, Australia, and Africa. It is a climbing shrub whose leaves are used in Ayurveda, the Indian medicinal practice since ancient times.

Ayurveda uses it to treat a variety of conditions like diabetes, snakebites, and malaria. The impressive benefits of gymnema are:

  • The bioactive constituent present in the herb is gymnemic acid that can suppress sweetness. Gymnema Sylvestre extract powder helps maintain blood sugar levels because it has anti-diabetic properties. (30)
  • Studies showcase that the herb can promote insulin production (31).

Summing Up

In this techno-savvy generation, we are drifting away from nature. As we are a part of nature, we cannot escape it, right? It is high time we must get over the blind dependence on synthetics.

As there are so many researches going on to prove the efficiency of many herbal plants, we all must promote them globally for good.

However, before using any herbal ingredients as medicines, you must talk to your doctor to know about the dosage and safety. SAVE YOURSELF, SAVE THE ENVIRONMENT!

Disclaimer: The above statements are not intended to cure any disease or comply with any health benefits. This is solely for information purposes. Please consult your doctor/health practitioner before consumption of the product. Although we take efforts to keep our website informative, we do not guarantee any medical benefits.

REFERENCES

  1. Web reference accessed on November 5th, 2019.
    https://www.nhp.gov.in/introduction-and-importance-of-medicinal-plants-and-herbs_mtl
  2. Akram M, Shahab-Uddin AA, Usmanghani K, Hannan A, Mohiuddin E, Asif M. Curcuma longa and curcumin: a review article. Rom J Biol Plant Biol. 2010;55(2):65-70.
  3. Menon VP, Sudheer AR. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin. InThe molecular targets and therapeutic uses of curcumin in health and disease 2007 (pp. 105-125). Springer, Boston, MA.
  4. Kocaadam B, ?anlier N. Curcumin, an active component of turmeric (Curcuma longa), and its effects on health. Critical reviews in food science and nutrition. 2017 Sep 2;57(13):2889-95.
  5. Cousins M, Adelberg J, Chen F, Rieck J. Antioxidant capacity of fresh and dried rhizomes from four clones of turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) grown in vitro. Industrial Crops and Products. 2007 Feb 1;25(2):129-35.
  6. Bordia A, Verma SK, Srivastava KC. Effect of ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) and fenugreek (Trigonella foenumgraecum L.) on blood lipids, blood sugar and platelet aggregation in patients with coronary artery disease. Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes and Essential Fatty Acids. 1997 May 1;56(5):379-84.
  7. Kaviarasan S, Ramamurty N, Gunasekaran P, Varalakshmi E, Anuradha CV. Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum graecum) seed extract prevents ethanol-induced toxicity and apoptosis in Chang liver cells. Alcohol and alcoholism. 2006 Mar 30;41(3):267-73.
  8. Shabbeer S, Sobolewski M, Anchoori RK, Kachhap S, Hidalgo M, Jimeno A, Davidson NE, Carducci M, Khan SR. Fenugreek: a naturally occurring edible spice as an anticancer agent. Cancer biology & therapy. 2009 Feb 1;8(3):272-8.
  9. Igho O, Kang HS, Rachel P, Barbara W, Edzard E. The use of Garcinia extract (hydroxycitric acid) as a weight loss supplement: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised clinical trials. Journal of obesity. 2010 Dec 14;2011.
  10. Semwal RB, Semwal DK, Vermaak I, Viljoen A. A comprehensive scientific overview of Garcinia cambogia. Fitoterapia. 2015 Apr 1;102:134-48.
  11. Ernst E, Pittler MH. Efficacy of ginger for nausea and vomiting: a systematic review of randomized clinical trials. British journal of anaesthesia. 2000 Mar 1;84(3):367-71.
  12. Black CD, Herring MP, Hurley DJ, O'Connor PJ. Ginger (Zingiber officinale) reduces muscle pain caused by eccentric exercise. The Journal of Pain. 2010 Sep 1;11(9):894-903.
  13. Mashhadi NS, Ghiasvand R, Askari G, Hariri M, Darvishi L, Mofid MR. Anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory effects of ginger in health and physical activity: review of current evidence. International journal of preventive medicine. 2013 Apr;4(Suppl 1):S36.
  14. Haniadka R, Saldanha E, Sunita V, Palatty PL, Fayad R, Baliga MS. A review of the gastroprotective effects of ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe). Food & Function. 2013;4(6):845-55.
  15. Bhattacharya SK, Bhattacharya A, Kumar A, Ghosal S. Antioxidant activity ofBacopa monniera in rat frontal cortex, striatum and hippocampus. Phytotherapy Research. 2000 May;14(3):174-9.
  16. Nemetchek MD, Stierle AA, Stierle DB, Lurie DI. The Ayurvedic plant Bacopa monnieri inhibits inflammatory pathways in the brain. Journal of ethnopharmacology. 2017 Feb 2;197:92-100.
  17. Jyoti A, Sharma D. Neuroprotective role of Bacopa monniera extract against aluminium-induced oxidative stress in the hippocampus of rat brain. Neurotoxicology. 2006 Jul 1;27(4):451-7.
  18. Heuer M, Zhang Y, Roberts W, Huang L, inventors. Bamboo extracts, compositions and uses thereof. United States patent application US 14/600,478. 2015 Jul 23.
  19. Thampy M. BAMBOO SPROUTS: THE NUTRITIOUS CANISTER. “Star Research Reach” an inter-disciplinary peer reviewed international journal publishes interdisciplinary research and review articles. The Journal possess an international registration number, ISSN 0975-5101. Journal offersopportunity to researchers, students and faculties to publish their research findings..:108.
  20. Siddiqui MZ. Boswellia serrata, a potential antiinflammatory agent: an overview. Indian journal of pharmaceutical sciences. 2011 May;73(3):255.
  21. Sontakke S, Thawani V, Pimpalkhute S, Kabra P, Babhulkar S, Hingorani L. Open, randomized, controlled clinical trial of Boswellia serrata extract as compared to valdecoxib in osteoarthritis of knee. Indian Journal of Pharmacology. 2007 Jan 1;39(1):27.
  22. Gupta I, Gupta V, Parihar A, Gupta S, Lüdtke R, Safayhi H, Ammon HP. Effects of Boswellia serrata gum resin in patients with bronchial asthma: results of a double-blind, placebo-controlled, 6-week clinical study. European journal of medical research. 1998 Nov;3(11):511-4.
  23. Lambert JD, Sang S, Hong J, Yang CS. Anticancer and anti-inflammatory effects of cysteine metabolites of the green tea polyphenol,(−)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate. Journal of agricultural and food chemistry. 2010 Aug 18;58(18):10016-9.
  24. Mancini E, Beglinger C, Drewe J, Zanchi D, Lang UE, Borgwardt S. Green tea effects on cognition, mood and human brain function: A systematic review. Phytomedicine. 2017 Oct 15;34:26-37.
  25. Hursel R, Viechtbauer W, Westerterp-Plantenga MS. The effects of green tea on weight loss and weight maintenance: a meta-analysis. International journal of obesity. 2009 Sep;33(9):956.
  26. Assunção M, Santos-Marques MJ, Carvalho F, Andrade JP. Green tea averts age-dependent decline of hippocampal signaling systems related to antioxidant defenses and survival. Free Radical Biology and Medicine. 2010 Mar 15;48(6):831-8.
  27. Panahi Y, Khedmat H, Valizadegan G, Mohtashami R, Sahebkar A. Efficacy and safety of Aloe vera syrup for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease: a pilot randomized positive-controlled trial. Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine. 2015 Dec 1;35(6):632-6.
  28. Kumar GR, Devanand G, John BD, Ankit Y, Khursheed O, Sumit M. Preliminary antiplaque efficacy of aloe vera mouthwash on 4 day plaque re-growth model: randomized control trial. Ethiopian journal of health sciences. 2014;24(2):139-44.
  29. Okyar A, Can A, Akev N, Baktir G, Sütlüpinar N. Effect of Aloe vera leaves on blood glucose level in type I and type II diabetic rat models. Phytotherapy Research. 2001 Mar;15(2):157-61.
  30. Mall GK, Mishra PK, Prakash V. Antidiabetic and hypolipidemic activity of Gymnema Sylvestre in alloxan induced diabetic rats. Global Journal of Biotechnology and Biochemistry. 2009;4(1):37-42.
  31. Persaud SJ, Al-Majed H, Raman A, Jones PM. Gymnema Sylvestre stimulates insulin release in vitro by increased membrane permeability. Journal of Endocrinology. 1999 Nov 1;163(2):207-12.

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