Introduction
In a world full of manufactured products and chemical invaginations, it is essential to realize that nature has a solution to all our problems. Manufactured products do not form part of our natural being, providing temporary benefits but only negatively impacting our health in the long run.
Nowadays, some organic companies produce products from natural, unprocessed raw materials to form potentially beneficial effects. An example is Yerba Mate Liquid Extract, which combines plant types such as xanthines and saponins. When combined in the extract, these make a stimulating yet enjoyable beverage.
Talking about plant types, there is another type that has some surprising health benefits that are unknown to many.
What are succulents?
Succulents are a group of plants that store water in their leaves. The leaves are thick and fleshy. However, some genera and species have thicker leaves than others. Succulents thrive in dry climates and are less favored by a humid environment. Succulents mostly prefer warm temperatures and cannot withstand freezing as freezing will often result in the plant dying or getting mushy leaves due to the water stored in their leaves. Some species of sedums and sempervivums can withstand temperatures below freezing, but they still thrive better or perform better in a warm climate.
Healing benefits of Succulents
Succulents are mostly seen as delicate décor items for your indoor or outdoor décor. It adds natural beauty to your décor be it home décor, event décor or street décor. However, succulents are much more than just a décor item. Succulents carry many health benefits which help protect and heal your body system. A description of some succulents and their healing benefits are mentioned below;
Agave
Agave, a commonly known succulent, is named after the Greek word for proud because it's used to make agave nectar and tequila. You may need to know that Agave also has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Back in the days, Agave was traditionally used to treat cuts and burns and speed up wound healing. In Central America, people use this plant for anything from stomach ulcers and jaundice to toothaches and menstrual problems. The agave plant leaves may even be woven to make mats and paper.
Agave juice is rich in is also rich in flavonoids, alkaloids, and vitamins B, C, D, and K. However, you must take care while using it since it carries some negative aspects as well. You should be aware that too much Agave can cause digestive upset, and pregnant women should avoid it.
Yucca
In the early times, yucca was used to soothe scratches and cuts and even as a treatment for dry cuticles. The yucca plant contains saponins, chemical compounds with anti-inflammatory properties. Many herbalists and healers recommend boiling the roots for about half an hour and drinking it as a tea to relieve pain from inflammatory conditions like arthritis. Some laboratory studies suggest that the yucca compounds exhibit properties similar to drugs commonly used to treat joint pain.
Yucca is also rich in vitamins A, B, and C and is a good source of copper, calcium, manganese, potassium, and fiber, making it an all-in-one nutrition source.
Prickly pear
When discussing succulents, how can we forget the king of succulents- the cactus? Famous for their spines, cacti may not appear to be the most nurturing plants in the world due to their appearance, but they carry many health benefits. It contains high levels of fiber, vitamin C, carotenoids, and betalains, a rare type of antioxidant.
Surprisingly, prickly pear is a popular hangover treatment used by people across different continents. This specific use has been supported by research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. The study found that participants who drank prickly pear before consuming alcoholic beverages had significantly less nausea, dry mouth, and loss of appetite the following day, probably due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Cactus may alternatively be used as a treatment for diarrhea, asthma, high blood pressure, and gastric acidity, but they have yet to be supported by research.
Conclusion
Succulents are an excellent addition to your life to your lifestyle for healing. However, in case of serious internal or external injuries, you may consult a doctor since succulents alone will not be enough.
