Herbs useful for treating insomnia: Ginkgo, common hop.
Herb name: Ginkgo, Ginkgo biloba
Family: Ginkgoaceae
Useful plant parts: Leaves
Description: Ginkgo is a deciduous tree which belongs to the gymnosperm group of plants. It can grow up to thirty meters in height. The leaves are located on relatively long petioles, they have a leathery surface and are usually somewhat bifurcated. Ginkgos have separate sexes, whereby only female trees produce seeds which have a yellow and fleshy outer layer.
Collecting period and locations: Ginkgo leaves are mostly collected during late summer. Afterwards, the leaves are dried in a warm and airy place. As for the locations, ginkgo can be found growing in the wild only in certain parts of Asia. In other parts of the world, it can be found in parks, along avenues and in botanical gardens. It is also often cultivated and used for decorative purposes.
Medicinal properties and applications: Ginkgo is known to dilate blood vessels, especially arteries which lie deeper in the body. This results in better circulation of the body, which is useful for treating various circulation problems. This also increases circulation of the brain, which improves memory and concentration. Ginkgo leaves are also useful for preventing arteriosclerotic problems. It has also been used in treating insomnia, since it also acts as a mild sedative.
Active compounds: Mainly flavones and glycosides.
Recipe: Ginkgo tea can be prepared by adding two full teaspoons of dried ginkgo leaves to about 1/4 liter of hot water. The mixture is then left for about fifteen minutes. Afterwards, the tea is strained and is ready to be used.
Herb name: Common hop, Humulus lupulus
Family: Cannabaceae
Useful plant parts: Female flowers
Description: Common hop is a perennial plant which is known to form several stems which can grow from three to six meters in length. These stems usually attach themselves to bushes and trees. The stems are covered with spiky hair. The leaves have relatively long petioles, and are positioned against each other. Female flowers have a characteristic light green coloration, and are used extensively due to their medicinal properties.
Collecting period and locations: The female flowers of common hop are usually picked during late summer. The flowers are then spread over a large surface, and are dried on on airy and shady place. As for the locations, common hop is a relatively common plant which grows near humid locations, along paths, fences and fields.
Medicinal properties and applications: Common hop has various properties - it is known to increase appetite, and to help treat insomnia, stress and milder forms of depression. Common hop can also help treat various menstrual problems. It is also known to have a positive effect on kidneys and bladder function.
Active compounds: Tannins, resins, lupulon, humulon and flavonoids.
Recipe: Two full teaspoons of dried female hop flowers are added to a quarter liter of boiling water. This is then left for about fifteen minutes. Afterwards, the tea is strained and is ready to be used. |
