The mural pictured above is located in the basement of Meiling Hall in the Humanism Lounge. It was a collaborate effort to turn an underused space into something inspiring and useful. The Humanism & the Arts in Medicine Program teamed up with College of Medicine Student Council members and local artist Nick Stull to create a bespoke mural highlighting nature’s beauty and medicinal properties. All of the plants and animals in the mural are local to Ohio and hold medicinal properties. See the list below for a detailed explanation of each plant and their properties. Under the guidance of the artist students, faculty, and staff of the College of Medicine slowly filled in the mural in paint by numbers fashion.
Bee balm (Monarda didyma): Native to boggy and swampy areas of North America, including Ohio, Bee balm can be prepared as a medicinal tea. The aroma is similar to that of Bergamot, with noted citrusy and earthy components. Traditionally, the herb has been utilized for proposed anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, antispasmodic, and diuretic effects. The general mechanism of action for bee balm looks at various phytochemicals from all parts of the plant besides the roots. These include thymoquinone, thymohydroquinone, monardaein, carvacrol, gamma-terpinene, and linalool. Some of the anti-inflammatory effects being investigated seem to play a part in reducing the inflammatory cytokine interleukin-6 (IL-6). There is also some potential as a free-radical scavenger. Fraternale D, Dufat H, Albertini MC, et al. Chemical composition, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of Monarda didyma L. essential oil. PeerJ 2022;10:e14433.
Jerusalem Artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus): this plant is native to North America and was utilized by Indigenous peoples for its tubers, which are high in inulin, a type of prebiotic fiber. This fiber helps regulate blood sugar levels and supports gut health by promoting beneficial bacteria (Gropper & Smith, 2016). Recent studies have confirmed its role in improving insulin sensitivity and managing diabetes (Kumar et al., 2020). Additionally, its high antioxidant content helps protect cells from oxidative stress (Zhu et al., 2017). The plant’s historical use underscores its significance in both traditional and modern medicinal practices, offering dietary benefits that are increasingly recognized by contemporary research.
Violets (Viola sororia): commonly known as the common violet, is native to North America and has been used by Native American tribes for its medicinal properties. This plant contains a variety of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and saponins, which exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects (Batiha et al., 2021). Traditionally, it was used to treat respiratory ailments and skin conditions. Modern studies have supported its efficacy in reducing inflammation and promoting respiratory health (Kris-Etherton et al., 2010). Its versatile applications and traditional use make it a valuable herb in both historical and contemporary herbal medicine.
Lemon Verbena (Aloysia citrodora): Aloysia citrodora, or lemon verbena, originates from South America and has been a staple in traditional medicine for its soothing properties. Indigenous cultures used it to alleviate digestive issues and reduce anxiety. Modern research validates these uses, showing that lemon verbena effectively relieves digestive discomfort and exhibits anxiolytic effects (García et al., 2020). The plant’s essential oils contain compounds that have been shown to reduce stress and improve sleep quality (Naveed et al., 2018). Its continued relevance in both traditional and contemporary herbal practices highlights its enduring therapeutic value.
Ginger (Zingier officinale): commonly known as ginger, is native to Southeast Asia and has a long history of use in traditional Asian medicine. It is widely recognized for its anti-nausea, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties. Evidence supports its efficacy in treating nausea, including motion sickness and chemotherapy-induced nausea (Bode & Dong, 2011). Additionally, ginger’s compounds, such as gingerol, have been shown to reduce inflammation and pain in conditions like osteoarthritis (Altman & Marcussen, 2001). Its historical and modern applications underscore ginger’s significance in promoting gastrointestinal health and alleviating pain.
Ohio Buckeye (Aesculus glabra): Aesculus glabra, or the Ohio buckeye, is native to North America and was used by Native American tribes for its potential benefits in treating venous disorders. The seeds of this plant contain compounds like aescin, which has been shown to improve circulation and reduce symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency (Khan et al., 2018). While primarily used topically in modern herbal medicine, its historical use highlights its role in managing circulatory issues. Contemporary research supports its efficacy in improving vascular health and alleviating symptoms of varicose veins (Michaëlsson et al., 2014).
Echinacea/Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea ‘Maxima’): Commonly known as the purple coneflower, Echinacea herbs are native to many midwestern North American states. There are several species of Echinacea, each which have demonstrated various chemical compounds that improve various ailments ranging from the common cold, various infections, diminished immune function, and synergistic effects when utilized alongside cancer treatments. More specifically, Echinacea species have shown to have stimulatory effects on both white blood cells and T lymphocytes, enhanced the activation of macrophages, as well as other antiviral, anticancer, and antibacterial properties.
Gingko (Ginkgo biloba): One of the oldest medical trees that has traces of its uses for medicinal purposes as far back as 2800 B.C. in Traditional Chinese medicine, extracts from the plant have shown efficacy in treating or improving various conditions. The pharmacological properties of Ginkgo biloba extracts have profound effects on tissue, nerve, and vascular cells as well as platelets. Its uses are investigated for diseases such as Alzheimer’s, tinnitus, senile macular degeneration, peripheral arterial insufficiency, and impotence.
Milk thistle (Silybum marianum): Generally found in drier climates, milk thistle extracts are used largely in European pharmaceutical concoctions geared toward the treatment and alleviation of liver disease and disorders. The active component, Silymarin, has demonstrated significant liver-protecting qualities. Clinically-speaking, silymarin has had positive results in treating conditions such as chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis, and other fatty liver disease, as well as psoriasis and gallstones.
Ginseng (Panux ginseng): Panax ginseng, originating from East Asia, has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 2,000 years. It is renowned for its adaptogenic properties, which help the body cope with stress and enhance overall vitality. Modern studies have confirmed its benefits in reducing fatigue, improving cognitive function, and supporting immune health (Kennedy et al., 2001). The ginsenosides in Panax ginseng are believed to be responsible for these effects, promoting mental clarity and physical endurance (Reay et al., 2005). Its deep-rooted history and scientific validation underscore its importance in both historical and contemporary herbal medicine.
Lavender (Lavendula spica): Lavandula spica, or spike lavender, is native to the Mediterranean region and has been used since ancient times for its therapeutic properties. The plant’s essential oils are valued for their anxiolytic, sedative, and antimicrobial effects (Koulivand et al., 2013). Historical records show that it was used in traditional medicine for treating insomnia, anxiety, and skin conditions. Contemporary studies support these uses, demonstrating that lavender essential oil can effectively reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality (Woelk & Schlafke, 2010). Its longstanding use and modern evidence solidify its place in both traditional and evidence-based herbal practices.
Koulivand PH, Khaleghi Ghadiri M, Gorji A. Lavender and the nervous system. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2013;2013:681304. doi: 10.1155/2013/681304. Epub 2013 Mar 14. PMID: 23573142; PMCID: PMC3612440.
Woelk H, Schläfke S. A multi-center, double-blind, randomised study of the Lavender oil preparation Silexan in comparison to Lorazepam for generalized anxiety disorder. Phytomedicine. 2010 Feb;17(2):94-9. doi: 10.1016/j.phymed.2009.10.006. Epub 2009 Dec 3. PMID: 19962288.
Sources:
Murray MT. The Healing Power of Herbs: The Enlightened Person’s Guide to the Wonders of Medicinal Plants. Three Rivers Press; 1995.