A medicinal plant is a plant that has therapeutic properties and is used for healing purposes. These plants contain natural compounds that can help treat various ailments, ranging from minor issues like headaches to more serious conditions such as infections. Common examples include aloe vera, known for its soothing properties, and ginger, which is often used to alleviate nausea.
Many cultures have relied on medicinal plants for centuries, integrating them into traditional medicine practices. The study of these plants is known as ethnobotany, which explores how different societies use flora for health benefits. Today, scientific research continues to validate the effectiveness of many medicinal plants, leading to their incorporation into modern medicine.