How do medicinal plants work in the body?
Written by
David Nelson
Reviewed by
Prof. Benjamin Murphy, Ph.D.Medicinal plants contain bioactive compounds that target specific biological processes. For example, alkaloids such as morphine from poppy have a particular affinity for the pain receptor. Compounds such as terpenes in lavender interact with the gustatory pathways to produce changes in mood and mental tones. Such natural products can release physiological responses via precise molecular interactions.
Alkaloids
- Morphine from poppies binds opioid receptors reducing pain signals
- Quinine from cinchona bark disrupts malaria parasite metabolism
- Caffeine blocks adenosine receptors increasing alertness
Terpenes
- Menthol in mint activates cold-sensitive TRPM8 nerve endings
- Linalool in lavender enhances GABA activity reducing anxiety
- Limonene from citrus peels modulates stress hormone production
Polyphenols
- Curcumin in turmeric inhibits NF-kB inflammation pathways
- Resveratrol in grapes activates longevity-associated SIRT1 genes
- EGCG in green tea neutralizes free radicals protecting cells
Synergy enhances the efficacy of plant materials beyond the sum of their individual ingredients. Companion compounds in turmeric significantly increase curcumin absorption. It is the entourage effect that explains why traditional medicine, often in a whole-plant form, is generally more effective than pharmaceutical extracts. Whole-plant preparations that have multiple compounds produce an overall physiological response that appears more balanced.
Methods for increasing bioavailability. One way is to add curcumin with black pepper's piperine. Furthermore, taking resveratrol with healthy fat can help with bioavailability. These approaches can protect the compounds during digestion and deliver them to a target tissue. Taken correctly, these approaches maximize therapeutic benefit.
Adaptogens, including ashwagandha, have an unusual functioning mechanism for regulating stress. Adaptogens regulate the stress response system, also known as the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, without overstimulating it. Adaptogens help the body maintain homeostasis in response to physiological or psychological stress. When adaptogens regulate the HPA axis, they do so intelligently and bidirectionally, tailoring their effects to each individual's specific needs.
Plant substances employ evolution-aligned pathways to communicate with your body. Glycosides from foxglove can be converted to active digoxin, which regulates the heartbeat. Allicin from garlic alters the permeability of cell membranes to fight infections. Knowledge of these mechanisms enables you to utilize plants effectively.
Read the full article: 10 Essential Medicinal Plant Uses
