HEALTH PROPERTIES OF SELECTED HERBAL PLANTS

Herbs contain many biologically active natural substances and their properties have made it possible for people to use herbs in cooking and medicine for centuries. The use of herbal mixtures can prevent the illnesses, regenerate the body, regulate intestinal flora, strengthen the nervous, respiratory, digestive and circulatory systems. The objective of the study is the presentation of selected species of medicinal plants which are important to human body. Valuable, healthy properties of herbs result from the contained within them biologically active compounds such as glycosides, flavonoids, alkaloids, essential oils, tannins, bitterness, locks, pectin, minerals and vitamins. Properly matched herbs are natural and safe agents for treatment of many illnesses. Herbal preparations are prepared from fresh or dried, suitably comminuted plants and can be used internally and externally. They help to maintain good health and generally strengthen the body. Herbs are not only used in herbal medicine, but also in the food, cosmetic and perfumery industries. Herbal medicine is an effective method to take care of health by preventing illnesses and their treatment. Herbs have antibacterial properties, reduce the risk of cardio-vascular diseases and cancer, they can reduce the level of cholesterol in the blood and provide support to the respiratory and digestive systems. The proper selection of herbs and method of they consume is critical, because some of them have toxic properties, and various kinds of illnesses or specified physiological states constitute contraindications to their use.