Page 8 - Medicinal Plants_PharmD general

Forms of medicinal plants

1. Traditionally used medicinal plants

They can be cut or powdered botanical crude drugs where plant or
plant parts are used in unprocessed form. They can also be used loose
or in tea bags to form infusions, instant teas, tinctures, extracts.For
example:

 The herb of St John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum), used in
the treatment of mild to moderate depression.

 The leaves of Ginkgo biloba, used for cognitive deficiencies
(often in the elderly), including impairment of memory and
symptoms such as anxiety.

 The flower heads of chamomile (Chamomilla recutita), used
for mild gastrointestinal complaints and as an anti-
inflammatory agent.

 The leaves and pods of senna (Cassia spp.), used for
constipation.

2. Culinary herbs

Leaves, flowers, or stems of plants with aromatic properties used for
flavouring or as a garnish. Examples are thyme, parsley and basil.
Medicinal herbs differ from culinary herbs as any parts of the plant
might be used.

3. Spices of botanical origin

Seed, fruit, root or bark, or other plant substance primarily used for
flavouring, colouring or preserving food. Examples are:

 Seeds, such as fennel, mustard, nutmeg, and black pepper
 Fruits, such as Cayenne pepper

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