Organic food has been gaining a lot of traction these past few years. This is in part of people becoming more aware of where their food is coming from. We are now more informed about how our food is being processed. How the animals that provide us with meat were raised. How the fruits and vegetables were grown. We are now more conscious of what we consume. The idea is that the more natural the food is, the better it is.
While people are still debating whether organic food is the best way to go, we also need to turn our attention to the medicines that we are using to treat ailments and diseases. Are natural remedies still effective or should we just fully rely on modern medicine? Don’t get me wrong. Modern medicine is great and very effective. I am just saying that there are still natural remedies out there that are just as effective and is worth giving a try. One of these natural remedies comes from the plant called English ivy.
What Is It?
The English ivy or just called ivy is a flowering plant native to Europe and Western Asia. It’s an evergreen vine commonly found in gardens, on walls, tree trunks and in any wild habitat. It is considered an invasive plant species and tends to crowd out the other plants in the area. Planting it is discouraged if it is not native to an area.
Though invasive, it does have uses. The English ivy’s leaves have a lot of medicinal properties that have been utilized for many years.
Anti-inflammatory
The English ivy is known to have strong anti-inflammatory properties. If you suffer from arthritis or rheumatism, consuming tea made of its leaves might be a good treatment option for you. It can also be applied topically if the inflammation is experienced on the outside of the body.
Skin Care
Using ivy for skin care has been practiced by people for centuries. Because of its antibacterial properties, it has been used to minimize infection from open wounds and sores. It is also great in treating skin conditions like acne and psoriasis.
Detoxifies
Englishy ivy can also help your gallbladder and liver in flushing out the toxins from your body. The fewer toxins there are, the better your body functions.
Bottom Line
While the English ivy has many health benefits, it is still recommended to consult with your doctor before using it. There is still the possibility that you are allergic to it and may cause more harm than good. We love natural remedies but our bodies react differently. Again, be smart and talk to your doctor.
