Unconventional Plants and Their Healing Properties: A New Perspective on Natural Medicine

Emerging scientific studies highlight the health benefits of unconventional plants, positioning them as significant contributors to natural medicine. Among these, nettle (Urtica dioica), prevalent in Slovakia, stands out for its therapeutic potential. Research indicates that nettle exhibits chemopreventive effects against cancers, including prostate, breast, leukemia, and colon cancer. It induces apoptosis and halts cancer cell division. Furthermore, nettle protects the liver, reproductive, excretory, cardiovascular, nervous, and digestive systems, attributed to its rich content of phytochemicals like flavonoids, lectins, and lignans. Its bioactive compounds also reduce inflammation and neutralize free radicals, aiding in the treatment of rheumatism and arthritis. Bixa orellana, native to Central and South America, contains tocopherols and tocotrienols, forms of vitamin E with antioxidant effects. Studies show it has antimicrobial compounds effective against various pathogens and supports cardiovascular health by reducing cholesterol levels and inflammation. Trametes versicolor, traditionally valued, contains polysaccharidopeptides like PSK and PSP, which boost the immune system. Research suggests it can enhance cancer treatment effectiveness, particularly for breast, lung, and colon cancers, and its prebiotic properties support gut health. Medicinal clays, used for millennia, are now being validated for their gut health benefits, positively influencing intestinal bacteria and promoting healthy digestion. They also bind toxins and pathogens in the digestive tract, aiding in detoxification. Fibraurea tinctoria, traditionally used in Southeast Asia, demonstrates wound-healing properties. Observations of orangutans using the plant to treat injuries suggest its antiseptic and healing effects, aligning with its traditional use for pain and inflammation relief. These plants offer natural alternatives in disease prevention and health promotion.