There are three basic ways to classify medicinal herbs: those taken internally, applied externally, and inhaled. Many, though, fall under two or even all three of these classifications. Herbal drugs can have from two to as many as 40 different ingredients, which are also classified by species and medicinal attributes.
In addition to treating various symptoms and ailments, many Thai medicinal herbs are used to spice up the various dishes. Thais love to combine very different flavors, hot, sour, sweet and bitter, which create culinary delights that are also curatives, as they balance the four elements: wind, water, earth, and fire.
Basil (Horapha)
An anti-bacterial, it also relieves constipation and indigestion as well as cold symptoms. It also helps reduce body fat.
Clove (Kan Phlu)
An aid in digestion, it also relieves cold symptoms and works as an antiseptic for toothaches.
Cumin (Yira)
An efficient cure for flatulence, indigestion, and diarrhea.
Garlic (Krathiam)
A great treatment for colds, coughs, and bronchitis. It also purifies the blood, reduces blood pressure and cholesterol, and controls acne.
Hibiscus (Krachiap Daeng)
Reduces fat in the blood.
Wild Ginger (Krachai)
A treatment for dysentery, diarrhea, and flatulence, it is also an antidote for certain local poisons.
Tumeric (Khamin)
An excellent cure for liver problems and jaundice, particularly when taken in tonic form.
Nightshade (Mawaengkhrua)
Relieves cold symptoms and cough.
Betel (Phlu)
A very mild stimulant.
Chili Pepper (Prik)
Rich in vitamin C, it can help prevent colds. It also stimulates blood circulation and assists in digesting starchy food.
Coriander (Phak Chi)
A good diuretic and detoxicant, it also relievescold symptoms. Some believe it is an aphrodisiac as well.
Galangal (Kha)
An excellent treatment for colds and respiratory problems.
Ginger (Khing)
Improves circulation and digestion. Relieves coughs as well as nausea and flatulence. An excellent remedy for sea and car sickness.
Kariyat (Fathalai Chon)
An excellent treatment to reduce fever and relieve indigestion.
Mint (Saranae)
A mild stimulant, it relieves headaches and cold symptoms and reduces flatulence and indigestion.
Nutmeg (Chanthet)
Relieves digestive and liver disorders, as well as flatulence. It is also used as a natural stimulant and is thought by some to be an aphrodisiac.
