Not every headache is a reason to go to the pharmacy. And no, not every digestive problem requires immediate pharmaceutical intervention. In a time when healthcare (and our calendar) often operates on the principle of "everything at once", more and more people are wondering: is there a way to help the body more naturally? Here is a list of herbs that may come in handy!
We're not talking about miracle potions from the internet or theories from the last wellness podcast. We're talking about herbs that are also confirmed by science. Substances that our grandmothers not only knew about, but also used - and today they are getting their deserved attention again.
In this article, we reveal six herbs and plants that have extraordinary properties – from reducing inflammation to supporting digestion – and scientists have even compared them to medicines in certain contexts. But don't worry: we didn't go to new-age extremes. We just checked where nature can really help before reaching for a box of pills.
6 natural herbs that science compares to medicines
1. Ibuprofen = Matalafi (Psychotria insularum)
From the tropical paradise of Samoa comes matalafi – a plant that locals used for inflammation and infections long before blue-packaged pills were sold in pharmacies. In 2021, research University of the Sunshine Coast has shown that matalafi actually affects immunological pathways related to inflammation – much like ibuprofen. Sounds like a miracle? Maybe, but for now matalafi remains more exotic than serious competition to pharmacies – and Amazon doesn’t deliver it overnight either.
2. Paracetamol = Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)
An old friend of anyone who has ever had a bad day, an upset stomach or a mother who believed in the power of tea. Chamomile contains apigenin, a compound that acts as a mild natural analgesic and muscle relaxant. Ideal for evenings when you need some calming down – but not for those times when you have a 39 degree fever and an 8 o'clock meeting. So: yes, chamomile has its charms, but paracetamol is not retiring yet.
3. Omeprazole = Turmeric (Curcuma longa)
The queen of golden lattes and influencer breakfasts also has scientific backing. Curcumin, the main active ingredient in turmeric, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that can alleviate symptoms of heartburn and dyspepsia. Some studies even show that it can affect acid secretion - but not as effectively as omeprazole. In short, turmeric is great as a culinary boostand for gastro problems only if accompanied by medical advice.
4. Metformin = Garlic (Allium sativum)
Those of you who love garlic bread will now have one more reason to eat it. Garlic contains allicin, a substance that helps lower blood sugar. Clinical studies confirm that garlic, as a supplement, can slightly improve glycemic control in type 2 diabetics. But to replace metformin with it? Well, then you would have to eat so much garlic that even vampires would start avoiding you.
5. Amoxicillin = Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis miller)
Aloe vera is not only a savior after sunburn and failed waxing. The gel from its leaves also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Some studies confirm that it inhibits the growth of certain bacteria - but in no case is it a substitute for antibiotics for a serious infection. It is useful for mild local ailments, but for pneumonia - no offense - you should go to the pharmacy.
6. Aspirin = Cloves (Syzygium aromaticum)
Cloves aren't just a winter addition to mulled wine, they contain eugenol, a compound with analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. They're traditionally used for toothaches, and science says there's some truth to that. Eugenol works similarly to aspirin—just in much smaller doses. So if you're having a headache, clove tea might help... or just smell nice.
Conclusion:
Nature really knows how – but sometimes she likes to overdo it (or so we do). Although many foods are rich in medicinal substances, this does not mean that they can completely replace classic medicines. At best, they are excellent supplements that can support us on the path to better well-being. Just remember: common sense is still the best recipe. And the next time you have a headache, try cloves – but keep aspirin handy. Just in case.
