Using different kinds of herbs as medicine has been common scientifically from the distant past and Iranian well-known scientists such as Avicenna, Zakariya Razi, and Abu Rayhan Biruni had written quality books in the field of medicinal herbs. Among the most important of these books The Canon of Medicine by Avicenna can be mentioned.This book has been translated into different languages such as Latin, Arabic, English, French, and German.
Due to technological advancements, chemical medicine has replaced with herbal medicine over time. Although, today, the use of chemical drugs is more common, the side effects are unavoidable. Since human is always perfectionist, he is returning to use medicinal herbs in pharmacy industry.
Iran is one of the best places to grow a variety of plants due to its climate condition and geographical location. Therefore many pharmaceutical companies are purchaser of medicinal herbs of Iran. A considerable amount of these herbs is exported to different countries every year.
In following 10 valuable exporting medicinal herbs of Iran are mentioned:
Saffron
Saffron, also called Red Gold, has different medicinal properties. More than 90 percent of this valuable highly priced spice in the world is produced in Iran. Saffron is rich in antioxidant substances that prevent or slow damage to cells caused by free radicals. It also prevents serious diseases such as cancer by boosting the immune system. The crocin in saffron is useful in improvement of insulin resistance. Moreover, it is rich in large amount of iron, magnesium, potassium, manganese, and vitamin C. The safranal and coumarin content of saffron are helpful to treat depression. This herb can be used as herbal tea or spice.
Damask Rose
Damask rose is an aromatic flower that the more it is red the more medicinal properties it has. Damask rose contains large amounts of antioxidants. It has vitamin C, crocin, and ellagic acid that are very helpful for repairing damaged cells and preventing diseases like heart problems, osteoporosis, and cancer. Breathing damask rose essence is very effective in treatment of depression. This flower is used as one of the best substances for skin scrubbing, removing wrinkles, removing makeup, and treating skin allergies in cosmetic products. In addition, it is an effective treatment of constipation. Rosewater can be used in some sweets an deserts or as tasty drink. It also can be used directly on skin. The flowers can be consumed as herbal tea or even added to regular tea as a flavor.
Lemon Verbena
Drinking lemon verbena tea helps to treat the respiratory system diseases by reducing the amount of phlegm. Lemon verbena can prevent the growth of cancer cells due to the large amount of antioxidant. It also has anti-candida and anti-fungal property that can be very beneficial for digestive system, and it is suitable for losing weight. Lemon verbena essential oil has bactericidal and insecticidal features, and also used in fragrance industry. This herb can be used as herbal tea, spice, or essential oil.
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is used for treating mood problems. Due to its soothing and calming prosperities, it is effective for reducing anxiety and muscle cramps. Lemon balm is known for healing headaches, memory loss, and soul fatigue. It contains rosmarinic acid and citral which have antiviral properties that can be used as anti-herps.
Lavender
Lavender is one of the most aromatic plants in the world that is used as medicinal herb in traditional medicine of Iran, China, and India for many years. Lavender is believed to have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to improve digestive system function and it is very beneficial for nausea, stomachache, and abdominal swelling. The linalool content of lavender is helpful to reduce blood pressure and the risk of heart diseases. It also improves blood circulation. Moreover, it is used to heal headaches, anxiety, and migraine. Lavender is effective for cleansing scalp and hair and is one of the best things for treating dandruff and lice. In addition to helping with hair problems, it is used to treat skin problems such as scratches, burns, and skin inflammation.
St. Johns Wort
This herb is highly regarded for treating mild to moderate depression and it is commonly used in pharmacy industry. The active chemical in St. Johns Wort, hyperforin, can be useful for treating depression and nervous pains. It also has anti-inflammatory property that can be effective in treatment of irritable bowel syndrome.
Sage
Sage has been effective in treatment of complications of insect bites from the past. It has been also used for boosting mood and life extension. Sage contains saponin that can stop bacteria growth and has antimicrobial property against candida-albicans which is the cause of many diseases. Using sage is very useful during the menopause. It can reduce the symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats. It is also effective in treatment of painful and irregular menstruation.
Rosemary
Rosemary is used as natural treatment for gut problems, constipation, meteorism, and diarrhea. It helps to promote regular bowel movements and digestive system. Using rosemary can be useful for improving memory and mood, and it reduces inflammations. It is also beneficial for detoxing body.
Tarragon
Tarragon is a good source of iron, calcium, magnesium, manganese, vitamin A, and vitamin C. It is mostly used as a vegetable in foods, but it is also used for medical consumption. Due to its anesthetic property, ancient Greek chewed it in order to soothe toothache. Furthermore, it was used as snake antivenom. Tarragon helps to improve digestion and heart diseases and is effective in treatment of obesity.
Peppermint
Peppermint is used to improve gut function and digestive system. It is beneficial for meteorism and gullstones. Inhaling peppermint essential oil is very helpful for treating cold and sore throat. It contains menthol that can prevent the growth of cancer cells, especially prostate cancer.
