THE 50 MOST COMMON MEDICINAL PLANTS AND THEIR USES - ECONOMÍA - 2025

The medicinal plants are represented by species such as melissa, the zoapatle, oregano mount, aceitillo and Copalchi, among others. These, in addition to being part of popular wisdom, are relevant elements in traditional medicine.

These species are characterized by having various properties, among which are anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, healing, antimicrobial and antioxidant. The latter helps protect cells from the possible damage that free radicals can cause.

Chicozapote. Source: HK Arun Melissa. Source: Karelj

The importance of the use of medicinal plants lies both in the treatment and prevention of some diseases, as well as in the development and research of new drugs and active principles.

Medicinal plants

Melissa (

Dick Culbert from Gibsons, BC, Canada

This herbaceous plant, belonging to the Lamiaceae family, is made up of a group of erect stems up to 150 centimeters. Its leaves are aromatic, thus being able to be used in salads and in some cooked foods. Also, with them a tea is produced, with a soft lemon fragrance.

Lemon balm is used in the treatment of cardiovascular, gastrointestinal or nervous diseases, such as anxiety and stress.

The benefits of the lemon or lemon balm leaf, as the Mexican Agastache is also known, are the following: it fights flatulence, relieves headaches, calms menstrual cramps and creates effects of tranquility and well-being.

Likewise, it helps prevent some digestive problems and, together with a few drops of lemon, contribute to phlegm and cough.

Zoapatle (

Image source: Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz

This tree, which is part of the Asteraceae family, can be around 1.5 meters tall. In the composition of this plant are present several mineral salts, resins, oxalic acid and essential oil, composed of monoterpenes. camphene, borneol and limonene, among others.

Zoapatle is used in the traditional treatment of female menstrual discomforts and in some problems during childbirth. In this regard, it is associated with the acceleration of contractions and with the elimination of the remains of blood that may remain in the uterus after the baby is born.

On the other hand, it is a regulator of menstruation disorders, as well as alleviates colic that a woman could present in that period. In addition, this plant is used to calm the discomfort caused by constipation and rheumatism.

Wild oregano (

Dick Culbert from Gibsons, BC, Canada

This aromatic plant, a member of the Verbenaceae family, has a high commercial value, due to its characteristics as a condiment and for its medicinal properties. It is composed of essential oils, p-cymene, thymol, limonene, α-pinene, among others.

Wild oregano has antifungal, antiparasitic, antibacterial, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. Likewise, new research related to the phytochemical composition highlights the activity of this species as an antioxidant, hypotensive, hypoglycemic and hypolipidic.

Also, it has wide applications in chemotherapy. Regarding the anti-inflammatory effect, studies show that it acts efficiently in epithelial carcinoma cells.

Copalchi (

Image source: colombia.inaturalist.org

The copalchi can measure up to 8 meters high. In the greenish foliage, composed of oval leaves, the white flowers stand out, with a pleasant aroma. The stem is rough, from which a substance that has hypoglycemic properties is obtained.

The bark of Hintonia latiflora is used against intestinal and stomach ailments. However, research is currently underway to study the antidiabetic properties of this species.

The results show that copalchi contributes to the decrease in blood glucose levels and increases the production of the hormone insulin.

Also, this species is used as a diuretic, depurative, antiseptic, anthelmintic and to fight diseases such as malaria and malaria.

Chia (

Dick Culbert from Gibsons, BC, Canada

This herbaceous plant belongs to the Lamiaceae family. Chia is among the species whose seeds have the highest concentration of omega-3 alpha-linolenic fatty acid known. In addition, it contains elements with powerful antioxidant activity, such as caffeic acid, myricetin and kaempferol.

The seed of this plant has a high percentage of carbohydrates and fiber, soluble and insoluble. In addition, it does not have gluten or toxic elements.

The hydrophilic characteristics of the soluble fiber in the seed make it absorb water. Studies carried out show that, when ingesting the seed, the digestive absorption process is delayed. This causes a feeling of fullness, thus contributing to a lower food intake.

On the other hand, when in contact with water, the seed produces a mucilaginous polysaccharide. This acts as a physical barrier in the stomach, limiting the enzymatic digestion of some carbohydrates. Thus, its transformation into sugars is prevented, a beneficial aspect for diabetics.

Likewise, Salvia hispánica contributes to the maintenance of optimal blood sugar levels and to the regularization of blood pressure.

Sweet stick (

The palo dulce is a deciduous shrub that can be 3 to 6 meters tall. Steroids, flavonoids and ketones are found in the bark of this plant, components associated with various therapeutic properties. Among these are antidiabetic, diuretic, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory.

In the gastrointestinal system, this species is used to treat stomach pain, diarrhea, and in the treatment of dysentery. Also, it is widely used as a diuretic, thus contributing to the elimination of kidney stones and the detoxification of the body.

Likewise, it reduces pain and inflammation caused by arthritis, regulates blood sugar levels and acts on cortisol, the stress-related hormone.

Cuachalalate (

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This plant, belonging to the Anacardiaceae family, is traditionally used in Mexican culture as a medicinal plant. The bark of cuachalalate is used to treat diseases such as malaria and stomach cancer, gastric ulcers, and stomach ailments, such as gastritis.

Recent studies give this species anticancer properties. Likewise, it has curative effects on fever, stomatitis and on varicose and gastric ulcers, among others. It is also used as a healing agent, on skin wounds and as an astringent.

Mexican arnica (

The Mexican arnica, exclusive to the New World, has been used as a natural medicine since ancient times.

This species has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and diuretic properties. The alcoholic tincture and the decoction of the flowers and leaves are used externally in the form of poultices or friction. Thus, it helps reduce the ailment in case of bruises, sprains, neuralgia and muscle aches.

In addition, it is used in rheumatism, inflammation of the gums, phlebitis and in some gastrointestinal problems. It is very effective in biting insects and cleaning wounds, due to its antimicrobial activity.

Pericon (

This herb, native to Mexico and Guatemala, is part of the Asteraceae family. It is used, in infusion, in the treatment of stomach ailments, such as diarrhea and some bacterial diseases.

In addition, it has antioxidant, antispasmodic and antibiotic properties, being effective against the infectious processes that cause Candida albicans and Salmonella pyogenes.

The pericon is also used to clean wounds, to combat malaria and the effects of scorpion bites and some snakes.

Ahuehuete (

FrankAndProust

This tree, one of the oldest in the world, is native to the Sierra Madre of Mexico. Its height reaches 30 meters and its bark is very hard. This is rich in pectin, alkaloids, tannins and essential oil.

The resin obtained from the trunk is used in traditional medicine as a powerful analgesic, healing and astringent. Thus, it is used on chafed skin, ulcers, in the treatment of scabies and burns.

Currently, it is used in circulatory problems, diarrhea, hemorrhoids, in menstruation disorders and in some heart and circulatory conditions. Due to its diuretic property, it helps in the control of blood pressure and in the elimination of some toxins that exist in the body.

Alder (

This tree, native to Mexico, belongs to the Betulaceae family. The alder has active principles, such as tannins and some acids, which make it a plant used in traditional medicine.

The bark has antifungal and antibacterial activity, while the leaves are used for rheumatism and to eliminate kidney stones.

Likewise, the benefits of this plant are due to its astringent properties, being used in sore throats. Also, it is hemostatic, being able to prevent and control bleeding.

On the other hand, alder could be used to wash wounds, relieve headaches and cold discomfort and to reduce inflammation. A cooking of the inner bark could be used as an external wash against certain skin conditions and pediculosis.

Bighorn indigo (

The bighorn indigo has components, such as amines, triterpenes, flavonoids, tannins and phenols, which give it various medicinal properties. Among these are antispasmodic, antiseptic and febrifuge. In addition, this species is antiparasitic, laxative, antherpetic and antiepileptic.

Commonly, this plant is used to cure scabies and in the treatment of pharyngitis. In addition, it relieves skin conditions, caused by dermatophytes and could heal wounds and ulcers. Likewise, it is used in the case of snake bites and bee stings.

The roots of the bighorn indigo are used to eliminate the causative agents of pediculosis. Another important aspect of this species is its hepatoprotective and antioxidant effect.

Anon (

This tropical fruit, whose shell has spikes and the pulp is white, is frequently used in smoothies, ice creams and juices. However, it has great medicinal properties. Inside the parts of the fruit, the seeds could be toxic.

Thus, sugar apple stands out for its effectiveness as an antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal. For this reason, it is excellent in treatments to combat bacterial infections and intestinal parasites. Also, consuming the fruit contributes to the regulation of blood pressure, thus improving blood circulation.

The kidney, as this species is also known, is a natural sedative, which is why it is usually used in cases of mild depression or stress. Also, it is used as a stimulant of digestion, to reduce pain caused by rheumatism or contusions, in diarrheal processes and in dysentery.

It is a powerful anti-inflammatory and healing. Because it is rich in vitamin C and iron, the intake of the fruit is an excellent ally in the recovery of anemic pictures. Likewise, it is used for the relief of colic and in the control of dandruff.

Lower gut (

This wild herb is characterized by its bright red fruits, which grow in clusters. In traditional medicine, the leaves are used in liver and nervous problems, stomach pain, varicose veins, jaundice and diarrhea.

Externally they are used to cure measles, rash, erysipelas, as well as snake bites.

Coral, as this species is also known, has antirheumatic properties. In addition, it is used as a laxative and to prevent vomiting. As a tincture, it is used as an antiseptic, healing and against hemorrhoids.

Yam (

Yam belongs to a genus of tropical plants, whose tuber is widely used for food. However, it has active principles, such as diosgenin, which are used in the pharmacological industry.

In traditional medicine, this plant could be used as an antitumor, laxative, astringent, antidepressant and antidote to snake bites. Also, it is used in the treatment of rheumatism, colic, fever and in the improvement of the functions of the gastrointestinal tract.

On the skin, poultices can be applied to areas that have been burned or have lesions or ulcers. Also, it could be indicated to reduce the organic disorders typical of menopause, such as vaginal dryness, insomnia, "hot flashes" and night sweats.

Purple maguey (

This plant is used in wounds, due to its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effect. In addition, its antibiotic action is used against Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

Its antibacterial activity has been demonstrated, acting efficiently against 6 Gram positive and 4 Gram negative bacterial species, such as Staphylococcus aureus and Neisseria gonorrhoeae.

Also, it is used to reduce fever, headaches, cough and rheumatic and bronchitis diseases.

Currently, research is being carried out aimed at the use of the anticancer properties of purple maguey, in order to propose optional chemopreventive strategies in the treatment of cancer patients.

Azumiate (

This shrub, which belongs to the Asteraceae family, is used in traditional medicine against infections and stomach pain. In addition, its leaves are used in those cases where falls or blows have caused bruises.

On the other hand, it is used to treat chickenpox and rash. Baccharis salicifolia has anti-venereal, anti-rheumatic, vermifuge, stomachic, soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

Water cress (

The watercress is an aquatic or semi-aquatic plant, which is between 10 and 50 centimeters tall. In its chemical composition there are large percentages of calcium, iron, omega-3 fatty acid and folic acid, as well as vitamins C and A.

The natural consumption of watercress is a source of antioxidant and phytochemical compounds, as well as being an excellent expectorant and an aid to digestive processes.

Recent studies highlight the anticancer property of Nasturtium officinale, especially against lung and breast cancer. Likewise, the researchers state that phenyl isothiocyanate, contained in watercress, could inhibit angiogenesis.

Bretonic (

This healing herb, which is part of the Lamiaceae family, can reach a height of up to 80 centimeters. It has a wide spectrum of action in natural medicine. Thus, it is used in digestive disorders, such as indigestion, colic, gastritis, diarrhea, and stomach pain.

Traditionally, especially in some areas of the state of Michoacán, this species is used to control diabetes mellitus. Recently, some investigations carried out in rabbits with temporary hyperglycemia, verified the antihyperglycemic effect of Lepechinia caulescens.

Capulí (

This deciduous tree grows between 15 and 30 meters tall. In this species, for medicinal purposes, the leaves, branches and bud are used.

With respect to the fruit, it has a very high nutritional value. Its juice has polyphenols, a very powerful antioxidant. In addition, they have anti-inflammatory properties.

Likewise, the black cherry, as this species is also known, is used as an excellent expectorant and diuretic. The buds and leaves are used to soothe the ailments caused by rheumatism, colds and colic.

Bitter cedar (

Bitter cedar belongs to the Meliaceae family. This tropical tree has a stem that could reach 40 meters high.

Various medicinal properties are attributed to this species. Among these are its activity in problems of a respiratory nature, such as asthma and bronchitis. In addition, it is used to soothe stomach, ear and toothaches, as a muscle relaxant and anti-hemorrhagic.

Bitter cedar works against diarrhea, dyspepsia, indigestion and gangrene. Its use is effective in the treatment of malaria, rheumatism and snake bites. It is also febrifuge and anti-parasitic.

Pochote (

The Pochote is a tree that could measure up to 70 meters high. It is a species widely used in traditional medicine, thus using the leaves, bark and resin. The seeds are considered toxic.

It is usually indicated as a diuretic, antispasmodic, and astringent. Also, it relieves migraine and acts in cases of rheumatism, hemorrhage, congestion of the bronchial tubes and diarrhea.

The resin is used in the treatment of some intestinal diseases. As for the stem, it has anti-inflammatory properties and is used to soothe a toothache.

Chacá (

This tree species, endemic to Yucatan, is used in some kidney, liver and stomach diseases and acts against pertussis and dysentery. In the case of measles, rubs or baths are recommended.

The resin of the palo mulato, as this species is also known, is used for burns produced by the sap of Metopium brownei. In addition, when combined with rosemary, a poultice is formed that acts against rheumatic pain.

Likewise, it is used as an anti-inflammatory, expectorant and laxative. It is very effective against oral infections and those caused by fungi.

Chalahuite (

Chalahuite is known for its antioxidant, emollient, astringent, anti-ulcerogenic, stomachic and purifying properties. In addition, it is used as an anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antibacterial and antibacterial.

The fruits are used as treatments in cases of dysentery, skin rashes, diarrhea and cystitis. In relation to the leaves and the bark, they are indicated as antispasmodic, antipyretic and in the affections of the respiratory and digestive tracts.

This species has positive activity against the bacterial strains Staphylococcus aureus and Listeria monocytogenes.

Shorty (

Often, some parasites become resistant to drugs, a situation that occurs in the case of malaria (Plasmodium falciparum). Due to this, in investigations carried out the antimalarial activity of Chaparro amargoso is evidenced.

In relation to the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi, which causes Chagas disease, the methanolic extract of this species inhibits the development of said protozoan by approximately 33%.

In short it is used to treat gastrointestinal tract conditions, such as diarrhea and colitis. As a parasitic agent, it is active in the treatment of amoebiasis and dysentery. Before the Entamoeba histolytica, it acts destroying both its eggs and the adult parasite.

Jarilla (

This medicinal plant belongs to the Sapindáceae family. Infusions are prepared with the stems and leaves. These are used in throat conditions and to lower body temperature, in feverish symptoms and as anthelmintics.

The jarilla is indicated in disorders of the digestive system, including diarrhea, indigestion, constipation and ulcers. In addition, it stimulates the production of breast milk and regulates the menstrual cycle.

The leaves of Dodonaea viscosa are used as a dressing for skin eruptions, insect bites and wounds.

Chaya (

Chaya is a Mesoamerican shrub, belonging to the Euphorbiaceae family. In Mexico it is a very popular plant. Its leaves are used like collard greens and cooked like spinach.

In this sense, this species contains a high percentage of mineral salts, vitamins, enzymes and trace elements, thus forming a highly favorable phyto-compound for the body.

Among the benefits are the reduction of uric acid and cholesterol levels, in addition to acting as a regulator of blood pressure, thus improving blood circulation.

On the other hand, it facilitates the digestive process, helping the normal transit of organic waste through the intestines. Likewise, it improves brain functions, favoring the development of memory.

Chicalote (

Chicalote is an endemic Mexican plant, with extensive use in traditional medicine. To this, healing, anti-inflammatory, anthelmintic, antifungal and antibacterial properties are attributed.

The seed is used as an analgesic, since it is especially effective in the case of colic. It is also a laxative, cough reliever, and sedative. In relation to the leaves, stem and flowers, they have antibacterial and antiviral action, being especially useful against malaria.

Likewise, they are used for cataracts, conjunctivitis, some dermal infections, hemorrhoids and burns.

Sapodilla (

This tropical tree, belonging to the Sapotaceae family, is native to Central America, Mexico and northern South America. Its fruit is recommended for hypertensive people. This is because it prevents blood clots from forming in the arteries.

The sapote, as this species is also known, is a natural source of vitamins C and A. Due to this, it is used in skin and respiratory problems. It also has antibiotic properties, which help improve the body's immune system.

Regarding the circulatory system, this species helps in the control of blood triglyceride and cholesterol levels. The seed has antibacterial effects, acting specifically against some strains, such as Vibrio cholerae and Pseudomonas oleovorans.

The fruit acts by inhibiting the activity of elastase and collagenase. These enzymes are responsible for the disintegration of elastin and collagen. In this way, the sapodilla prevents aging of the skin.

The plantain

Plantain is a herbaceous plant that reaches a height between 30 and 50 centimeters. Its leaves have a serrated edge and emerge from a basal rosette. This medicinal species encompasses a great diversity of pathologies, among which are gastritis, diarrhea, hemorrhages, ulcers, dysentery and hemorrhoids.

It is an excellent healing and emollient, where its antiseptic properties. anti-inflammatory and astringent allow its effective action in cases of bleeding and skin wounds.

Plantago major is used in the treatment and relief of urinary infections. It is also very effective in reducing fever. Mouthwashes with this plant are used to heal some wounds on the gums and mouth.

Chinahuatillo (Acalypha alopecuroides)

• Parts that are useful: blade and tang.
• How to use: infusion to drink or to wash wounds.
• Benefits:

1. Deflames the bronchi (Auxiliary in the treatment of asthma).
2. Disinfect wounds.
3. Reduces or prevents the formation of acne.
4. Reduces the symptoms of bad urine.

• Side effects: constipation and dry skin.

Aloe (Aloe)

• Parts that are useful: pulp inside the leaves.
• How to use: as fresh food or directly on the skin.
• Benefits:

1. Reduces the period of wound healing.
2. Reduces dryness of the skin.
3. Reduces hives caused by insect bites or allergies.
4. Reduces the inflammation of hives and wounds.
5. Natural laxative.
6. Auxiliary in the treatment of colitis by allowing the exit of accumulated gases.
7. Increase appetite.

• Side effects: diarrhea from prolonged use.

pumpkin

• Parts that are useful: fruit pulp.
• How to use: eat the fruit.
• Benefits:

1. Eliminates excess fluids in the body.
2. Detoxifies the blood.

• Side effects: diarrhea from prolonged use.

Canchanlagua (Schkuhria pinnata)

• Parts that are useful: stems and flowers.
• How to use: infusion.
• Benefits:

1. Detoxifies the blood.
2. Stomach and intestinal anti-inflammatory.
3. Decreases arterial hypertension.
4. Helps lower fever.

• Side effects: kidney stones and diarrhea from prolonged use.

Achiote

• Parts that are useful: seeds.
• How to use: chew, drink infusion or put ground seeds directly on the wound.
• Benefits:

1. It dries out superficial wounds helping their healing.
2. Eliminate the headache.
3. Anti-poison in natural pine nut poisoning.

• Side effects: burning in the wound and feeling thirsty.

Cichorium intybus (

• Parts that are useful: leaf and root.
• How to use: infusion.
• Benefits:

1. Healing
2. Improves liver function
3. Expels intestinal worms
4. Sedative
5. Diuretic

Garlic (Allium sativum)

• Parts that are useful: head or teeth.
• How to use: infusion, whole, chewed.
• Benefits:

1. It prevents infections by strengthening the immune system.
2. Lowers high blood pressure.
3. Lowers cholesterol levels.
4. Strengthens the bones.

• Side effects: bad breath and sweating infused with garlic pain.

Epazote (Dysphania ambrosioides)

• Useful parts: leaves
• How to use: as a condiment or infusion
• Benefits:

1. It acts as an aid in the treatment of parasitosis.
2. Increases intestinal transit, thus eliminating constipation and accumulation of gases.
3. Auxiliary in the treatment of menstrual cramps.
4. It reduces stress.

• Side effects: kidney stones and decreased heart rate from prolonged use.

Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata)

• Parts that are useful: flower.
• How to use: infusion.
• Benefits:

1. Relaxing (against anxiety, nervousness, hysteria…).
2. Decreases asthma symptoms.
3. Decreases cardiac arrhythmias.
4. Relieves muscle pain (analgesic).

• Side Effects: Slow heart rate and cause drowsiness.

Boldo (Peumus boldus)

• Parts that are useful: leaf and fruit.
• How to use: infusion or ingestion of the fruit.
• Benefits:

1. Increases intestinal transit, thus eliminating constipation and accumulation of gases.
2. Decreases inflammation.
3. Relaxing the nervous system.
4. Detoxifies the blood.
5. Eliminates excess fluids from the body.
6. Helps in treating urinary tract infections.

Guayule (Parthenium argentatum)

• Parts that are useful: leaf and flower.
• How to use: infusion.
• Benefits: reduces the symptoms of flu and allergies.
• Side effects: dryness and bleeding of mucous membranes and constipation.

Chipilín (Crotalaria longirostrata)

• Useful parts: leaves
• How to use: infusion
• Benefits:

1. Decreases symptoms of intestinal infections such as nausea and vomiting
2. Decreases high blood pressure
3. Helps control sore throat in respiratory infections

• Side effects: constipation, feeling thirsty, decreased heart rate, and fainting.

Tepozán (Buddleja cordata)

• Parts that are useful: leaves and root.
• How to use: infusion.
• Benefits:

1. Decrease fever.
2. Eliminate retained fluids.
3. It serves as an antiseptic to disinfect wounds.

• Side effects: not known.

Tlaxcalishuat

• Parts that are useful: leaves with stems.
• How to use: infusion.
• Benefits:

1. Increases intestinal transit, thus eliminating constipation and accumulation of gases.
2. Decreases respiratory infections.
3. Disinfects wounds and burns.

• Side effects: constipation and dry skin.

Cancer herb (Cuphea aequipetala)

• Parts that are useful: the whole plant.
• How to use: infusion for washing.
• Benefits: disinfects wounds.
• Side effects: burning in the wound when applied.

Corn (Zea mays)

• Useful parts: corn hair.
• How to use: infusion.
• Benefits:

1. Assistant in the treatment of infections.
2. Helps the circulatory system.
3. It prevents oral diseases.
4. Helps reduce urine bad and kidney infections.
5. Disinfect wounds.
6. It prevents gastrointestinal diseases.

• Side effects: diarrhea and nausea.

Mint

• Parts that are useful: leaves.
• How to use: chewed, infused and plaster.
• Benefits:

1. Antivomitive.
2. Eliminate bad breath.
3. Decongests airways.
4. Increases intestinal transit, thus eliminating constipation and accumulation of gases.

• Side effects: not known.

Artichoke (Cynara scolymus)

• Parts that are useful: leaves and flower bud.
• How to use: infusion.
• Benefits:

1. Decreases fatty liver.
2. Eliminates fluid retention.
3. Helps in the disintegration and expulsion of kidney stones.

• Side effects: feeling thirsty and excessive sweating.

Guajilote

• Parts that are useful: bark, root and fruit
• How to use: infusion and fruit pulp
• Benefits:

1. Natural laxative
2. Eliminate excess fluids
3. Auxiliary in the disintegration of kidney stones and urinary infections
4. Prevents and relieves symptoms of respiratory diseases

• Side effects: diarrhea.

Shepherd's purse (Capsella bursa-pastoris)

• Parts that are useful: the whole plant without the roots.
• How to use: infusion and water for washing.
• Benefits:

1. Assistant in the treatment of vaginal infections.
2. Reduces arthritis pain.
3. Lowers cholesterol

• Side effects: Mareros and drowsiness.

Altea (Althaea officinalis)

• Parts that are useful: the whole plant.
• How to use: infusion.
• Benefits:

1. Calms the nervous system (stress and nerves).
2. Decrease flu symptoms.

• Side effects: drowsiness.

Calendula (Calendula officinalis)

• Parts that are useful: flowers.
• How to use: infusion and ointment.
• Benefits:

1. Remove the cloth caused by pregnancy.
2. Helps heal wounds faster.

• Side effects: dry skin.

Borage (Borago officinalis)

• Parts that are useful: the whole plant without roots.
• How to use: infusion.
• Benefits: reduces the symptoms of gastrointestinal infections such as vomiting, diarrhea and nausea.
• Side effects: constipation.

Horsetail (Equisetum arvense)

• Parts that are useful: the whole plant except the root.
• How to use: infusion.
• Benefits:

1. Helps break down and expel kidney stones.
2. Control excessive menstrual flow.

• Side effects: diarrhea.

Mallow

• Parts that are useful: the whole plant except the root.
• How to use: infusion to drink and gargle.
• Benefits:

1. Decrease fever.
2. Eliminate sore throat due to infection.

• Side effects: not known.

Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile)

• Parts that are useful: flowers and leaves.
• How to use: infusion for drinking and washing.
• Benefits:

1. Eliminate eye infections by washing them.
2. Calms the nervous system (stress, nerves…).
3. Decreases stomach pain from overeating.

• Side effects: constipation.

Nettle

• Parts that are useful: leaves.
• How to use: infusion.
• Benefits:

1. Detoxifies the blood.
2. Eliminates retained liquids.
3. Improves blood circulation.
4. Increases intestinal transit, thus eliminating constipation and accumulation of gases.

• Side effects: diarrhea.

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

• Parts that are useful: stems.
• How to use: infusion for washing.
• Benefits:

1. Decreases hair loss.
2. Decreases muscle pain.

• Side effects: dry skin.

Good grass (Mentha spicata)

• Parts that are useful: leaves.
• How to use: chewed or infused.
• Benefits:

1. Stops vomiting.
2. Eliminate bad breath.
3. Increases intestinal transit, thus eliminating constipation and accumulation of gases.

• Side effects: not known.

Muña (Minthostachys mollis)

• Parts that are useful: leaves.
• How to use: infusion.
• Benefits: eliminates stomach pain from gastritis.
• Side effects: not known.

Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus)

• Parts that are useful: leaves.
• How to use: infusion to smell and drink.
• Benefits: decongestion of upper respiratory tract.
• Side effects: not known.

Acanthus (Acanthus mollis)

• Parts that are useful: leaves.
• How to use: infusion and ointment.
• Benefits:

1. Eliminate mild diarrhea.
2. Deflates adenoids.
3. Deflames spider and mosquito bites when used on the skin.

• Side effects: constipation.

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis)

• Parts that are useful: dried flowers and leaves.
• How to use: infusion.
• Benefits:

1. Helps the absorption of nutrients
2. Eliminate diarrhea
3. Eliminate colic

• Side effects: constipation, gastritis and colitis, in prolonged use.

Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)

• Useful parts: branches.
• How to use: infusion.
• Benefits:

1. Stimulates milk production during lactation
2. Eliminates gas from the intestine
3. Eliminates fluid retention
4. Decreases menstrual cramps

• Side effects: constipation.

Sage (Salvia officinalis)

• Useful parts: leaves
• How to use: infusion and plasters
• Benefits:

1. Decrease fever.
2. Helps against infections.
3. Stops bleeding.
4. Eliminates infections in wounds.

• Side effects: not known.

Balsamina (Momordica charantia)

• Parts that are useful: leaves.
• How to use: infusion for baths.
• Benefits: eliminates itching in hives and chickenpox.
• Side effects: dry skin.

Turmeric (Curcuma longa)

• Parts that are useful: leaves and stems.
• How to use: ointment.
• Benefits: reduces inflammation of the joints and muscles.
• Side effects: not known.

Anise (Pimpinella anisum)

• Parts that are useful: stars.
• How to use: infusion.
• Benefits: helps remove gas accumulated in the intestine.
• Side effects: diarrhea and drowsiness.

Caraway (Carum carvi)

• Parts that are useful: leaves.
• How to use: infusion.
• Benefits: stimulates milk production during lactation.
• Side effects: constipation.

Lemongrass (Citrus × limon)

• Useful parts: branches.
• How to use: infusion.
• Benefits:

1. Natural digestive.
2. Eliminates fluid retention.

• Side effects: not known.

Ether (Artemisia abrotanum)

• Parts that are useful: leaves.
• How to use: infusion.
• Benefits:

1. Detoxifies
2. It deflates urinary tract.
3. It reduces stress.
4. Disintegrates kidney stones.
5. Reduce the cholesterol.

• Side effects: dizziness and drop in blood pressure.

Jamaica (Hibiscus sabdariffa)

• Parts that are useful: flower.
• How to use: infusion.
• Benefits:

1. Eliminates retained liquids.
2. Lowers cholesterol levels.
3. Strengthens the immune system.
4. Regulates blood sugar.

• Side effects: not known.

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

• Parts that are useful: flowers.
• How to use: infusion for drinking and washing.
• Benefits:

1. Calm nerves and stress.
2. As a wash, it eliminates the bad smell of the feet, fights infections in the genitals and infections in the skin.

• Side effects: not known.

Gentian (Gentiana lutea)

• Parts that are useful: root.
• How to use: infusion.
• Benefits:

1. Treatment against anorexia.
2. Increases intestinal transit, thus eliminating constipation and accumulation of gases.
3. Eliminate flatulence.
4. Stimulates the thyroid.

• Side effects: not known.

References

1. Mariana Palma-Tenango, Ruben San Miguel-Chávez and Ramón Marcos Soto-Hernández (2017). Aromatic and Medicinal Plants in Mexico. Recovered from intechopen.com.
2. Emilio Godoy (2019). Medicinal Plants Popular and Unprotected in Mexico.IPS. Recovered from ipsnews.net.
3. Michael Heinrich (2019). Mexican herbal medicines. Recovered from mexicolore.co.uk.
4. Nancy Yazmín Hernández-Nicolás, Leobigildo Córdova-Téllez,
5. Francisco J. Morón Rodrígue (2010). Are medicinal plants important today? Scielo. Recovered from scielo.sld.cu.
6. Jose Waizel-Bucay (2009). The traditional use of species of the genus Dioscorea. Recovered from academia.edu.
7. National Forest Information System-Mexico (2019). Inga jinicuil. SERMANAT. Recovered from cnf.gob.mex.
8. Heydee Lisbet Diaz Martinez (2016). Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity of the hydroalcoholic extract of the latex of Argemone mexicana ("Holy Thistle"). Recovered from cybertesis.unmsm.edu.pe.
9. Heinrich Ankli A, Frei B, Weimann C, Sticher O. (1988). Medicinal plants in Mexico: healers' consensus and cultural importance. NCBI. Recovered from ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.