Plant Extracts

Plant extracts have a long history of use in traditional medicine. The practice of using plants for healing predates written records, and has been ongoing for thousands of years. Plant extracts have been used to treat a wide variety of ailments, including viral and bacterial infections, inflammation, and headaches. Plant extracts can be applied externally as a topical treatment or consumed in the form of teas, tinctures, and oils. Plant extracts can function as stimulants, diuretics, antiseptics, analgesics, anti-inflammatory agents, and agents for digestive support. The active compounds in plant-based therapies may consist of alkaloids, glycosides, polysaccharides, terpenes, saponins, and other chemical constituents. Therefore, there is a diverse array of possible effects from ingesting or applying plant extracts. These active compounds can be extracted and used in a variety of formulations, including tablet, capsule, oil, tincture, and cream. Plant extract formulations can address a wide variety of different health issues, aiming to promote balance in the body’s systems and restore homeostasis. For example, a plant extract may be thought to cleanse the liver, clear toxins from the blood, or support skin regeneration. The concentration of active compounds, preparation methods, and methods of administration vary by plant and formulation. Care should be taken when using plant extracts and one should follow the instructions of an experienced practitioner. Different forms of the same plant extract can produce different effects, and dosages of certain extracts can vary significantly depending on the person’s health condition. Plant extracts can provide an effective and natural method of supporting our health and wellbeing, and can be a viable option for treating certain chronic conditions. Before self-treating with plant extracts, one should consult with a qualified practitioner, such as an herbalist or naturopath. Furthermore, some plant extracts may interact with prescribed medications and could cause adverse side effects.