Prehistory. The use of plants as medicines predates written human history. Archaeological evidence indicates that humans were using medicinal plants during the Paleolithic , approximately 60,000 years ago.
When were plants first used for medicine?
Evidence exists that plants were used for medicinal purposes some 60,000 years ago . A burial site of a Neanderthal man was uncovered in 1960.
What is the history of medicinal plants?
Medicinal plants, also called medicinal herbs, have been discovered and used in traditional medicine practices since prehistoric times . ... The earliest historical records of herbs are found from the Sumerian civilisation, where hundreds of medicinal plants including opium are listed on clay tablets.
What is the history of traditional herbal medicine?
Herbal drugs constitute only those traditional medicines that primarily use medicinal plant preparations for therapy. The earliest recorded evidence of their use in Indian, Chinese, Egyptian, Greek, Roman, and Syrian texts dates back about 5000 years .
When did humans start using plants?
Until now, researchers believed farming was ‘invented’ some 12,000 years ago in an area that was home to some of the earliest known human civilizations. A new discovery offers the first evidence that trial plant cultivation began far earlier — some 23,000 years ago .
Which plant is known as Mother of medicine?
Holy basil is also known as “The Incomparable One”, “The Mother Medicine of Nature”,.
What is the oldest medicine?
The bark of the willow tree contains one of the oldest medicinal remedies in human history. In its modern form, we call it aspirin . More than 3,500 years ago, the ancient Sumerians and Egyptians used willow bark as a traditional medicine for pain relief.
Which is the best medicinal plant?
- Calendula (Calendula officinalis). ...
- Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla). ...
- Peppermint (Metha x piperita). ...
- Holy Basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum). ...
- Plantain (Plantago major). ...
- Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis). ...
- English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia “Vera”). ...
- Hops (Humulus lupulus).
Do plants have healing properties?
Plants with healing properties
Bergamot (Monarda) native Americans used the plant to treat colds and bronchial complaints. ... Feverfew (Tanecetum parthenium) fresh leaves are used as a treatment for migraine though they are very bitter. Lavender (Lavandula) has antiseptic and soothing properties.
What medicines come from plants?
- Caffeine. Used to treat fatigue and migraines, find caffeine in coffee beans, tea leaves, cacao pods, kola nuts and garana. ...
- Aspirin. Used for pain relief and anti-clotting, Salix is found in willow bark. ...
- Cocaine. Used for anaesthesia and as a recreational drug. ...
- Digitalis. ...
- Morphine, codeine, opium.
What are the examples of traditional medicine?
- Chinese medicine. This system of healing, which dates back to 200 B.C., proposes that the body should balance two opposing yet inseparable forces: yin and yang. ...
- Ayurvedic medicine. ...
- Homeopathy. ...
- Kampo medicine. ...
- Naturopathy. ...
- Acupuncture. ...
- Chiropractic medicine. ...
- Herbal medicine.
What is the importance of traditional medicine?
Contrary to those beliefs, however, traditional medicine has proven to be quite effective in treating both chronic diseases and psychological problems , especially those associated with stress, which frequently stem from social alienation, anxiety or loss of self-esteem.
Why is herbal medicine preferred?
The use of herbs for medicinal purposes is largely based on theory, beliefs, and experiences that are indigenous to specific cultures. Herbal remedies are usually preferred over conventional medicine as it is perceived to be important for reasons of health and well-being , including being beneficial during pregnancy.
Who is the king of herbs?
Basil King of Herbs
Known as the “King of Herbs”, ancient Egyptians used it for embalming their mummies and the Greeks viewed it as a symbol of mourning. In fact basil got its name from Greek which means “king” or “royalty”. It’s has been cultivated for more than 5,000 years.
What are the 5 medicinal plants?
- Chamomile. (Flower) Considered by some to be a cure-all, chamomile is commonly used in the U.S. for anxiety and relaxation. ...
- Echinacea. (Leaf, stalk, root) ...
- Feverfew. (Leaf) ...
- Garlic. (Cloves, root) ...
- Ginger. (Root) ...
- Gingko. (Leaf) ...
- Ginseng. (Root) ...
- Goldenseal. (Root, rhizome)
Who is the founder of medicinal plants?
Ancient Greek people were also familiar with the medicinal properties of some medicinal plants, and Hippocrates , the founder of Greek medicine and Aristotle, pupil of Hippocrates, used medicinal plants for the treatment of diseases. After that, Theophrastus, a Greek scientist, founded the School of Medicinal Plants.
