Uses
Yerba buena plant benefits mostly focus on analgesic or pain-relieving properties. But because of its minty scent and cooling effect, it is often included in the manufacturing of medicinal oil, soaps, and cosmetics.
Today, the Department of Health recognizes Yerba buena as one of the 10 herbal medicines that can help treat certain conditions – most especially aches and pains.
This herb has a lot of benefits to offer us on a practical level. The best Yerba buena plant benefits are the following:
1. Yerba buena can help get rid of bad breath
One of the practical Yerba buena plant benefits is its ability to get rid of bad breath. While others choose to mix it with essential oils, like tea tree oil, drinking the tea is often enough to achieve fresher breath.
2. It helps soothe pain
The aches that can be soothed by Yerba buena include headaches, toothache, abdominal pains, menstrual cramps, and various types of arthritis. In a study, the application of this herb in oil form was effective in treating headache. Not only does this herb possess a cooling property, it can also improve blood flow.
3. It helps relieve nasal congestion
It is also due to the menthol content that Yerba Buena can soothe a congested sinus. The menthol acts as an agent that helps the airflow in our nose.
4. It can help treat digestive problems, such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable Bowel Syndrome, often abbreviated as IBS, is a common large intestine disease characterized by bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, or constipation.
One of the Yerba Buena plant benefits that is most appreciated is its ability to relieve abdominal pain. A study reported that individuals who have been experiencing abdominal pain (resulting from IBS) found significant relief after using Yerba Buena.
How Does It Work?
The pain-relieving properties and cooling sensation of Yerba Buena makes it one of the most versatile herbal plants in the country.
Precautions & Warnings
Although there are many Yerba Buena plant benefits, it is still advised to follow the advice of your doctor.
Yerba Buena comes in commercially prepared oral and topical forms. For oral capsules, be sure to get the advice of your doctor. For topical solutions and patches, do not forget to do a quick skin patch test to prevent allergic reactions. Additionally, Yerba Buena plant is edible: many recipes include its leaves in salads and other dishes.
How Safe Is Yerba Buena?
Generally, Yerba Buena is safe as long you follow the recommended doses and you are under normal health condition.
As with any other herbal medicine, special precautions apply to those who take maintenance medications, have existing health conditions, and are on a strict dietary regimen. In Yerba Buena’s case, precautions are mandatory to people who have an ulcer, gastrointestinal inflammation, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or other digestive and urinary illnesses.
Young children, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers should not drink Yerba Buena.
