Rainforest plants used for medicine

Rain forests are forests characterized by a high rainfall, and very rich in plant life. A total of 40 to 75% of all species on the world's habitats is native to the rain forests. However, scientists believe that many millions of species of plants, insects and microorganisms are still undiscovered. The rain forests are also known as the "jewels of the Earth", and the "world's largest pharmacy", as more than 25% of all natural medicines have been discovered in them. Approximately two-and-a-half acres of Amazon rain forests are dwelling for approximately 900 tons of botanicals. Here are some of the most potent rain forest herbs used for medicine today.

Cinchona Three

Cinchona or Quina is a genus of about 38 species, native to tropical South America. The plant is a small three that grows 5–15 meters in height, and has a white, pink or red flower, produced in terminal panicles. The fruit is a small capsule loaded with seeds. Cinchona is used to treat malaria, reduce the fever, calm the nerves and regulate the heartbeats.

Curare Lianas

Curare grows as a large liana, or vine, in the South American rainforests. The liana has heart-shaped leaves, smooth on top with a hairy white bottom. The herb is used as a diuretic and a relaxant. It is also used for edema, fever, and kidney stones.Saw Palmetto

This herb is also known as serenoa repens. It is endemic to the southeastern United States. Saw Palmetto has been used as both a food source and as a medicinal plant. It is beneficial for the patients suffering from benign prostatic hyperplasia, male pattern baldness and other problems.Wild Yams

This plant is also known as dioscorea villosa, a twining tuberous vine that is native to North America. Wild Yam is believed to be helpful to the liver and endocrine system, as it regulates the menstrual distress and menopause, and it is used to treat infertility.Trumpet Tree

This herb is also known as Tabebuia, a Neotropical genus of somewhere near 100 species. The bark of several species has medical properties, and it is typically used during the flu and cold season and for easing the smoker's cough.Pacific Bleeding Heart

This herb is also known as Dicentra Formosa, which commonly grows in the moist woods and dry meadows. The herb is usually used as a relaxant and topically for bruises and sprains.

Cocoa TreeTheobroma cacao is a small evergreen tree from the tropical region of the Americas. The seeds are used to make cocoa powder and chocolate. The extract made from the cocoa tree is a powerful antioxidant, and it is also used for various health disturbances such as: nervousness, tiredness, fever, coughs, kidney stones, cuts and bruises.