 |
|||
Herbal medicine is for everyone |
|||
Herbs are natural foods with medicinal properties. They address the symptoms and causes of a problem. As herbs nourish our bodies, they help to balance and regulate. Herbs are gentle and can be specific to a particular condition or used as a tonic to promote whole body health. They have almost no side effects when used in moderation although like most things in life, if taken in excess herbs can cause negative reactions (just like food allergies). Allergic reactions to herbs can happen because the herb has been sprayed with chemicals in the growing or storing process. Always purchase herbs and spices from reputable dealers or grow your own. Herbs work in the body to nourish everything from the skin to the brain. They act slowly to support the body and reverse damage. Sometimes the synergy obtained from a combination of herbs is the best solution. When treating a cough, an herbalist may recommend several herbs such as wild cherry bark, mullein, and eucalyptus. Each herb works on a different part of the body to soothe and protect. Also no two people are alike. Using a combination of herbs helps to ensure that the patient receives the greatest chance of recovery. If one doesn’t help, maybe the other one will! Certain herbs act as catalysts and should not be used alone. Examples include capsicum, lobelia, sassafras, mandrake, tansy, snake root, wormwood, woodruff, poke root, and rue. Most herbs should not be taken all the time on a regular basis. Exceptions to this rule include broad based super foods like green drinks, seaweed, garlic, cabbage, onions, bee products, and ginseng. These super foods are very effective in stimulating the body’s immune system. It is best to rotate herbal blends. Take one blend for a month and then switch to another blend or discontinue for a week and then start again. Most herbs work best when used as needed. The dosage should be reduced and discontinued as the condition improves. Herbal medicine has been on the back burner of the health industry for many decades. Not because something better was discovered or because herbs were ineffective, but because it was hard to patent a plant. There wasn’t anyway to make money off of something that could be grown in home gardens (although seed companies are now receiving patents on genes, plants, and seeds in order to make more money). The value of an herb stems from the complexity of the whole plant. Once various properties are separated or extracted, much of the original benefits can disappear. Herbs contain elements that work together. That is why one individual herb can be used to treat many different problems. Herbs do not work like vitamins because they are not isolated chemicals. Their value depends on many factors. Herbs work best along with a good diet, lots of clean water, and a clean life style. *Always consult with your healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy especially if pregnant, nursing, or taking other medicines. |
|||
Janice Boling © 2010 - 2013 By Janice Boling - All Rights Reserved
|
|||
