Plant efficacy & value

Plant efficacy & value

Growing conditions

If we want to obtain the best medicinal properties from a plant we easily understand that its health and purity is of the utmost importance. They should be free of chemicals and grown in the best possible natural conditions. Environmental factors such as sunlight, moisture, soil, but also predators, play a most important role in the development of secondary metabolites, which have a direct effect on our immunity, adaptability and defense. A healthy ecosystem means healthy plants for our food and medicine.

Processing & storage

The way we process and store plants, is also very important for the preservation of their medicinal properties. Mass production by default compromises quality, as is the case with everything. It would be preferable to grow, collect and process herbs we need ourselves, or seek and promote (or even become!) small-scale farmers. Whichever the case, a specific know-how of growing, processing and storage is required and plays an important role. For example, plants and herbs respond differently to different growing conditions and they should be stored in dry, cool and shady places. They are particularly photosensitive; therefore avoid herbs which are exposed to light.

Quality – Effectiveness: the highlights

It’s basic common sense that effectiveness is based on quality, of plants as well as of their processing. The most important factors that affecting quality and effectiveness of herbs and herbal remedies are:

• Genetic factors: identification/authentication.
• Geographic factors:growing and climatic conditions.
• The part of the plant used.
• Season and time of harvesting.
• Absence of toxic agents, pests and contaminating factors.
• Storage conditions.
• Processing.
• The right form of extract and formulation.
• The correct combination.

Necessary plants for our balcony or garden

There are certain plants that are widely used for culinary purposes and they also have an important medicinal value. Some typical examples are rosemary, sage, oregano, basil, chilli, garlic, thyme, parsley, mint, but it is advisable to learn about herbs that are particularly helpful for your own individual needs and include them as well, e.g. chamomile, lemon balm or lavender. Growing plants in a garden is an opportunity one should not miss, but even a few pots in the balcony can make all the difference in your everyday life. If, however, you live in a polluted urban environment, it is advisable to avoid consumption from your balcony plants; Find or buy healthy, organic ones.