What is Herbal Medicine?
Herbal medicine is the oldest and still the most widely used system of medicine in the world today.
Herbal medicine is the use of plants (herbs) to treat disease and enhance wellbeing. A herb is a plant that is grown for medicinal or culinary value. Herbal medicine is used to treat a range of disorders including anxiety, arthritis, depression, high blood pressure, insomnia, hormonal imbalances, migraines, skin problems such as eczema and other disorders. Herbs can act on the body as powerfully as pharmaceutical drugs and need to be treated with care. Herbs are administered by certified herbal therapist (herbalists).
There are many different “types” of herbal medicine that spring from different cultures around the world. All these have the use of medicinal plants in common, but they vary in the plants they use, the way they prepare and use medicines from these plants, and the philosophy of their treatment approaches. Different cultures may also use the same plants but differ in how it is used, or the part they use.
The world of medicinal herbs is even more diverse and surprising. Even the most innocuous looking leaf blade may possess a treasure trove of medicinal properties. A medicinal herb is generally a shrub or other woody plant used for therapeutic purposes. Herbalism is the practice of folk or traditional medicine that aims to cure “dis-eases” in the body using plants and the active constituents found within them.
This resurgence of interest in herbs was brought about by various systems of holistic healing. Now, more than ever before, people are beginning to realize that good health does not refer to an absence of disease. Rather, it is a balance of physical, mental, emotional and social wellness. Herbal health care is becoming increasingly popular because herbs provide natural stimulants that activate the body’s own defense mechanisms.
Some interesting uses of herbs are:
- Chamomile tea sipped slowly throughout the day helps decrease acidity and soothes the digestive system
- Alfalfa is a highly nutritious herb as it is a natural source of vitamins and minerals.
- Valerian root can be used to treat insomnia.
- Two fresh garlic cloves taken at night increases ones resistance to flu and colds.
- Feverfew is a herb that if taken consistently, effectively reduces the frequency of migraines.
- Ginger – research has shown ginger to be useful in treating nausea, including motion sickness and morning sickness.
- Dong quai (dang gui) – used for gynaecological complaints, such as premenstrual tension, menopause symptoms and period pain. Some studies indicate that dong quai can lower blood pressure.
Do not self-diagnose ailments
It is very important that people do not self-diagnose any health conditions. Any medication (herbal or otherwise) should be taken under the supervision of a knowledgeable practitioner.
Special considerations for herbal medicine
Whether used to sustain health and vigor or to remedy a host of maladies, natural herbs can be a healthy alternative to many over-the-counter medications; although they should never replace prescription medication for a chronic condition without the supervision of a medical professional.