The Herbal Resource

Header Right

Herbs - General

By 3 Comments

4 Common Mistakes when Treating Yourself with Natural Remedies

Advances in medical diagnosis and treatment pinpoint, manage, and cure diseases in ways that were unheard of not so long ago.

Drugs that effectively target disorders and symptoms, state-of-the-art surgical techniques, and lifestyle changes dramatically improve a patient’s prognosis and quality of life.

However, many individuals, concerned about side effects and recovery time—and often in hopes of achieving quicker results—are reluctant to turn to conventional medicine and the surgeon’s knife to treat their ailments.

People looking for a chemical- and surgery-free treatment regimen may decide that natural remedies are just what the doctor ordered.

Using herbal supplements to fix health problems and heal injuries seems like a win-win situation.  Such remedies are believed to be safe as they are made from natural plants — and sometimes touted to be faster-acting than conventional therapies.

However, those choosing to use natural remedies for a quick, drug-free way to feel better and heal their ailments are not always aware of their true nature.  Here are four common mistakes that people often make when they turn to natural remedies.

 

Assuming that Plant-based Remedies are a Safe Cure-all

Only a medical professional or trained herbalist should determine if a particular substance is harmless and effective. (Keep in mind that not all physicians are experts in alternate therapies.  It is to a patient’s advantage to do some research and bring the results to the doctor.)

Seeing an ad on the internet touting for example the advantages of natural remedies for Fordyce spots, acne, impotence, diabetes etc. may seem like a perfect option if you are looking for a quick solution to your problem.  However, many conditions need to be treated with more robust methods than herbs or other natural remedies can provide.

By the same token, the fact that something comes from a plant does not mean it is harmless.  There are numerous plants out there sporting poisonous leaves (or other plant parts), an effective deterrent that keeps critters that eat them at bay.

For example, kava, considered a remedy for anxiety, is not only of doubtful effectiveness, it comes with a slew of health risks and side effect:

⦁ Liver toxicity (often with only one dose) and a need for liver transplants.

⦁ Uncontrolled body movements.

⦁ Potential harm to unborn babies and breast-fed infants.

⦁ Parkinson’s disease that rapidly and dramatically worsens.

⦁ Mild to severe gastrointestinal issues.

⦁ Driving difficulties similar to those experienced by drivers under the influence of alcohol.

 

Being Unaware of Interactions Between Different Herbal Remedies, Prescription Drugs, and Nutritional Supplements

In the same way that conventional medications can have unpleasant side effects or dangers if taken together, plant-based therapies potentially interact in undesirable ways.

Here are three examples:

⦁ Chamomile tea does not mix with a number of substances, including aspirin and anticoagulants.  (In 2006, a woman taking warfarin developed internal bleeding when she relieved cold symptoms with chamomile tea and lotions containing the herb.)

⦁ Saint John’s wort, which alleviates symptoms of depression,  makes some drugs less effective —including digoxin, warfarin, and other heart medications.

⦁ Echinacea is one of the most widely used plant-based remedies; it has demonstrated the ability to prevent colds and help people recover more quickly.  However, the remedy is not recommended for people with some types of allergies and autoimmune conditions.

 

Believing Natural Remedies are Safe for Everyone and in Any Amount

While many herbal therapies are harmless and effective, seeking medical advice is vital, especially for some individuals.  

Women who want to become pregnant, are expecting a child, or are breast-feeding head the list.  It is well-known that medications cross through the placenta to the baby and show up in breast milk; the same is true for plant-based remedies.

Children and seniors do not metabolize drugs the same way as other members of the population.  Members of the former group, since they are exposed to many substances for the first time, have a greater tendency to acquire an allergy.  And elderly people are more likely to take a number of drugs and have health concerns that may make using herbal treatments unwise.

People at any age with respiratory ailments, immunity issues, cardiovascular disease, kidney or liver disorders, cancer, and diabetes are especially advised to follow the general rule of seeking advice from their doctors about the safety of natural treatments.

A related misconception is that plant-based remedies, like food plants, are safe in any amount and for an unlimited amount of time. The reality is that taking too much or using them for too long is as risky as overusing traditional medications.

Speaking to an herbal specialist, researching safe dosages, and following the product maker’s guidelines are vital steps.  And be sure to know the proper interval between doses and how long it takes for the remedy to produce results.

 

Thinking that Natural Remedies are All High-quality and Tested for Safety and Effectiveness

Many herbal products, particularly those with fresh ingredients, have a short shelf life.  In addition, different manufacturers do not necessarily use the same active and inactive ingredients.  And, unlike prescription and over-the-counter drugs, there are no minimum standards, required testing, or mandated proof of effectiveness for natural remedies.

Consumers should always do their homework to verify the claims of the plethora of herbal remedies that appear on the Internet.

To increase the likelihood of proper dosage and the best effects, it is sometimes best to obtain standardized herbal remedies.

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center’s site, the above-mentioned lack of regulation and quality control often means these preparations are frequently not properly labeled, and not everything in the bottle or package (including contaminants) is listed.

Being an educated consumer ensures that the plant-based products he or she chooses are wholesome and beneficial.

 

In Conclusion

With all the uncertainties and conflicting data surrounding the safety, quality, and benefits of natural therapies, many people considering alternative treatments may be understandably reluctant to give them a try.

While herbal products cannot replace drug and surgical treatment, there are many advantages to plant-based remedies as a complement to conventional medicine.

With a healthy dose of knowledge, individuals with conditions from allergies to migraines to viruses can reap the benefits of natural remedies.

By

Ethical Foraging – Do’s and Don’ts

Foraging is something human beings have been doing since the beginning of time, but in the last two centuries or so this practice has fallen by the wayside at least as a mean for survival.

Recently this activity has seen a new resurgence in modern society as a way of communing with nature and finding more healthy natural food and herbal medicine.

The term “ethical foraging” came into existence to describe the guidelines and rules foragers need to follow in order to eliminate the negative effect the harvesters of the past sometimes had on the natural surroundings. This concept includes following the laws of the area being harvested as well.

These guidelines are designed to protect nature, the person foraging, as well as the owners of property, from being damaged in some way by harvesting wild plants.

The following tips are meant to simplify these guidelines and give the forager a set of rules to follow.

Laws of the Area

It is important to research the laws in the area being foraged. There might be a well-used hiking trail on public property, but the area close to the trail that has a nice berry bush may not be.

Most places have laws on foraging especially if the food picked is being used for monetary gain. Certain areas in the UK, for instance, will allow foraging for personal use on private property. If the harvest is going to eventually be sold, then permission is needed from the landowner.

In some case, permission to forage on private land could cost as little as a small portion of the harvest collected.

Some landowners also have restriction on who many set of hands can do the forages at any given time to protect the plants from over-harvesting.

A quick search online for the bylaws before setting out on a foraging expedition will save time and possibly a costly fine.

goldenseal endangered species
Goldenseal – Popular medicinal herb now endangered in USA.

Endangered Species

Some areas might have one or more species that is in danger of becoming extinct. This is usually due to over-harvesting but can also occur if there is a shift in weather patterns or other changes in the environment.

Endangered species lists can be found online with the various organizations that are responsible for agriculture and wildlife. In the United States, the Department of Agriculture (USDA) has the Natural Resources Conservation Services to provide lists of endangered species separated by state.

Expert foragers in the area are also a good resource and can usually be found on blogs or message boards.

Understand what Grows in the Region

Having a clear idea of what is abundant in the region in question and where to find the best spots for foraging will help create a foraging plan before heading out.

Often local experts like hunters and farmers will be able to provide insight on the best crops and trails. Some may even know the property owners to speak to for permission.

There are many other resources to tap into to truly understand the local wildlife and what is ripe for the picking and what needs to be left alone.

Choose Clean Areas for Foraging

It is important to be mindful of the levels of toxicity in the area being foraged. No matter how easily accessible and inviting a crop of wild edibles may be, the land it is on may have been exposed to toxic chemicals.

If a large empty field was once the site of an industrial plant, then it is probably a good idea to steer clear of the immediate and surrounding areas.

Wildlife close to power lines is also exposed to pollutants as are certain lakes and streams.

If there is any question about the health of an area when foraging for edible plants always err on the side of caution. Local foragers and municipal offices may provide insight into whether the land is safe to harvest from.

Do not Over-Harvest

There are several guidelines in place so that certain forage areas are not over-harvested. Some plants may grow in abundance and have no problem replenishing year after year, but others need to be protected against eager foragers.

Never pick the last plant of any species as this could cause the extinction of that crop in the area. Following certain steps will ensure that plants have a chance to replenish so they can be harvested the next year.

One rule of thumb is to only pick a third of whatever leaves, fruits or roots are available. If everyone who happens upon the same bramble bush only picks this amount, then that will leave plenty left over for the next forager and enough to let the plant keep reproducing.

Another rule to follow is to only pick what is needed to avoid unnecessary waste. It may be tempting to harvest as much of a particular fruit found in the wild, but keep in mind the amount of time needed to properly preserve the harvest.

Some fruits like blackberries can be frozen and then cooked once thawed out, but other fruits will not stay so easily.

Know when to Harvest for the Best Quality Yield

Choosing the right time of the year to forage is important and depends on plant species or which parts of the plants are going to be harvested.

Leaves of certain plants should for example be harvested in the spring but the roots of the same plants might be best to harvest in the autumn.

Other plants such as dandelions should be harvested before they flower to avoid a bitter taste, so the foraging plan around them would differ from many other plants.

Some plants will taste better when harvested at different times of the day. Some flowers are sweeter earlier in the day because they have the most amount of nectar, so the timing of the harvest is also very important.

Understand how Harvesting Can Affect the Plant’s Life Cycle

Cutting flowers off of certain trees at the wrong time can result in a lack of fruit in those trees come harvest time. Understanding the life cycle of the plants and trees in the area being foraged will help keep the crops growing year after year for generations of foragers to come.

Ethical foraging encourages education and restraint when the harvesting of a particular species will cause that species long-term harm.

Identify Species Using Several Different Sources

The primary reason most people forage is for consumption of wild edibles and medicinal herbs. There are many plants with similar characteristics in nature, however, and while one may have curative effects, its close relative could be poisonous or even deadly.

Identifying plants using more than one characteristic is always the safest method. An example would be morels which are wild mushrooms popular with foragers. They have a toxic look-a-like aptly named “false morels”. The toxic mushrooms can cause serious illness but the only way to really tell the difference is to look inside. One has “brain-like” tissue on the inside while the true morel is hollow throughout.

A good rule to follow is to learn 2 or 3 plants that are abundant in the area being foraged and start with those. When these plants are recognizable and easily identified as safe, then start learning another one. It is best to know 2 or 3 really well than know 10 partially.

It is also best to never eat anything new until it has been 100% identified. There are many resources available to help identify several different characteristics of the edible harvested.

Be a Steward of Nature

The reason why so many plants make it onto the endangered list is because of the careless and thoughtless way others have harvested without respecting the needs of nature.

The responsibility lies with the ethical foragers of today to treat nature with the consideration it deserves. This includes making sure no garbage is left in the area and being careful to not crush any other wild plants while trying to reach the targeted harvest area.

Another way to care for nature is to avoid harvesting edibles that are not growing in abundance but look as if they are struggling to reproduce. Steering clear of these plants and asking others on route to do the same will help that plant replenish and grow heartier for the next year.

It is very important to teach children how to harvest responsibly when out on a family foraging expedition. This will go a long way to raising a new generation of ethical foragers who understand the importance of respecting nature.

New foragers will definitely benefit from the experience of well-seasoned foragers who can share tips and tricks on the trails.

In optimal foraging seasons, it can expand knowledge of the area by going on some group hikes to get a good idea of where the best trails are and what types of plants are available for foraging.

This is also a good time to pick the brain of the organizer and maybe get some other lesser shared tips or ask questions.

choosing foraging equipment
Choosing the proper equipment for foraging is important!

Appropriate Equipment for Ethical Foraging

Harvesting prickly bushes or spiny plants can be painful and difficult without the proper equipment. In order to make sure the trip is fun several pieces of equipment and clothing should be brought.

      • A good pair of gardening gloves will protect the hands from painful scratches or splinters while trying to cut down leaves, roots or shoots.
      • A trowel for plants that need to be uprooted.
      • If going deep into the woods, a large knife or machete will be handy.
      • Lightweight shears will help cut through stubborn branches.
      • A long sleeved shirt or some sort of arm covers will protect the skin from scratches if it becomes necessary to reach deep into a plant to get at the roots or leaves.
      • Long pants and socks to tuck them into will keep insects at bay or act as a protections from poisonous plants like stinging nettle.
      • A bug hat with a veil will help keep pesky insects from interfering with the forage.
      • A cloth sling that goes over the shoulder can be helpful as it provides room for equipment and space for wild edibles.
      • A large basket may be the right transportation for fluffy plants that shouldn’t be squished or prickly plants that can’t be held against the clothing.
      • Water and food if the hike is a long distance.
      • A good identification guide is also a must when foraging for a new and unfamiliar species. Make sure that the plant is identified using two or more markers to differentiate between closely related species.
      • A dehydrator will keep fruits, herbs, and mushrooms dry to intensify their flavor.
      • Plastic containers to store berries without damaging them.

Leave Route Plan with Someone Else for Safety

If the foraging is within a residential area and consists of picking mulberries from the neighbor’s bushes, then having a safety plan is probably not needed.

If the path that leads to the best blackberries in the area consists of a two-hour hike into the woods, then leaving the exact location with a friend or family member “just in case” is a very good idea.

No one ever thinks that anything can ever happen to them, and most foraging trips end peacefully and happily, but keeping safe is not something that can be overdone. It doesn’t take any time at all to let someone know the location being foraged.

Ethical foraging can be a wonderful way of communing with nature, getting much-needed exercise and finding delicious wild fruits, nuts, and herbs to bring home for consumption. Following certain guidelines helps everyone enjoy this outdoor activity safely and with minimal impact on nature.

Understanding the laws of the area will eliminate the risk of a foraging trip getting ruined by a fine for trespassing or picking an endangered plant. It is also important to respect the dangers of incorrectly identifying a wild edible or harvesting in an area that contains pollutants.

Never take more food than can be consumed and bring appropriate equipment to cut and carry the 1/3 of the harvest taken from any abundant source.

Lastly, always be safe by letting someone know the route being taken.

By Leave a Comment

Butterbur for Migraines – Does It Really Work?

The product shelves at your local pharmacy are loaded with all kinds of expensive pain relief medications. A surprising few specifically target migraines. Considering that some 37 million people in the U.S. deal with intermittent or chronic migraines, you might think a fair amount of affordable remedies already exist. Luckily, there are safe, more healthy, herbal alternatives with which to treat migraines. Butterbur, for example.

What is Butterbur?

Butterbur (Petasites hybridus) is a shrub and a member of the daisy family. It grows in wet, marshy environments in Europe, Asia and North America. An old tradition of wrapping butter within the shrub during warm weather accounts for its name. But butterbur is also quite useful for medicinal purposes, such as for

  • allergies
  • anxiety
  • urinary tract and gastrointestinal problems
  • and migraines.

    • Butterbur for Migraines

    butterbur for migraines
    Butterbur for Migraines (Petasites hybridus) – Attribution: Richard Bartz
    The mostly unrecorded history of traditional and folk medicine doesn’t spare clues as to when and how humans came to use butterbur for migraines. But the shrub’s effectiveness has since acquired support through a large amount of scientific proof.

    Most recently, a 2006 Swiss study found that migraine sufferers given 150 mg of butterbur extract experienced fewer and less severe migraines over a period of three to four months than a second group given a lower dose or placebo.

    Other studies attest to butterbur’s anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic properties. These properties contribute to butterbur’s efficacy as a form of migraine relief and prevention.

    Migraine Prevention

    Use of butterbur for migraines can have a positive, twofold outcome. Butterbur may not only decreases the severity of migraines but their intensity and frequency. There is no known migraine cure, and prevention is key if you desire relief on a long-term basis.

    Before you factor butterbur into any preventative measures, it’s helpful to understand what is known about migraines, who suffers from them and the usual underlying causes.

    Migraines 101

    Hippocrates, the Father of Medicine, wrote about migraines in 400 B.C.E. Since that time, doctors have amassed a wealth of data concerning all aspects of this still mysterious ailment.

    Women suffer migraines in greater numbers than men, 18 to six percent respectively. Sufferers, or migraineurs, typically fall between the ages of 35 and 55.

    5 million people in the U.S. have a migraine at least once per month.
    11 million deal with chronic migraines.

    Stress, diet, hormones and genetics are several underlying causes.
    Recurring symptoms that define migraines and set them apart from mere headaches include

    • aura
    • sensitivity to light and sound
    • nausea
    • throbbing pains and pain on one side
    • blurred vision
    • vomiting

    Aura is worth singling out, as migraine with aura distinguishes itself from migraine without aura, or common migraine. Aura refers to vision changes or impaired vision and peculiar sensations in random parts of the body occurring 20 to 30 minutes before the full migraine and its related symptoms manifest.

    According to Dr. John F. Rothrock, editor-in-chief of “Headache” magazine, early treatment of migraine at its first signs helps alleviate or even eliminate symptoms. In this sense, your aura is a helpful clue that alerts you to an oncoming migraine and gives you time to prescribe yourself the necessary remedies.

    Details and Dosages of Butterbur for Migraines

    Raw, unprocessed butterbur contains toxic chemicals. Don’t ingest it without knowledgeable, careful preparation. Non-toxic forms available for oral ingestion in capsule, extract, tincture, powder and softgels are perhaps the easier, most accessible options.

    Butterbur’s chemical substances, petasin and isopetasin, are what reduce inflammation and prevent spasms. These same substances might react poorly with other meds you’re currently taking, such as prescription blood thinners or meds for intestinal ailments. Petasin and isopetasin are also not safe for pregnant and nursing women.

    50 to 75 mg twice daily are the most common dosage amounts of butterbur for migraines. Start with a low dose to assess your tolerance and to gauge how much butterbur you need to ameliorate your migraine symptoms. As with any natural remedy, research heavily and consult with your doctor.

    Beyond Butterbur

    There isn’t much information about ingesting butterbur for migraines beyond a period of 12 to 16 weeks. A common safety rule with all natural remedies is to cycle them so as to prevent toxicity and adverse reactions owed to long-term exposure. Take butterbur for a few months, give your body a one week break and then begin your cycle again.

    Providing you administer it mindfully, butterbur can reduce migraine symptoms or completely eradicate them.

    For more information on the medicinal herb butterbur visit the herb profile.

    References

    NYU Langone Medical Center: Butterbur

    A Train Education: A Brief History of Migraine

    National Institutes of Health: Butterbur

    Migraine.com: Butterbur for Migraines

    By Leave a Comment

    History of Herbal Medicine

    Herbal medicine, sometimes referred to as botanical medicine or herbalism, involves the use of plants, or parts of plants, to treat injuries or illnesses. This field also covers the use of herbs or botanicals to improve overall health and wellness. Herbalist, herbal medicine practitioners, traditional medicine practitioners, and Ayurvedic, homeopathic, and naturopathic healers all use herbal remedies in their practices.

    Seeds, leaves, stems, bark, roots, flowers, and extracts of all of these have been used in herbal medicine over the millennia of their use. These supplemental treatments have been delivered raw, in teas and tinctures, as topical applications, in liquid forms, and in pills and capsules. In the beginning the plants were consumed raw or combined with hot water as a soup or tea. Later, the plants were dried and crushed for other uses. The plants were found in the wild and uses were often based on superstitious or visual cues. Plants were often used to treat body systems because they were shaped like that body part or because they grew in a particular area. As science began to take a closer look at herbal remedies, their use became more refined. Herbs, and other plants, are actually the precursors to many of today’s medicinal drugs. Some of the pharmaceutical medications on the market are extracts of some of these traditional herbs.

    Today, many modern, and Western, medicine practitioners are beginning to look at herbal remedies for some common, and not-so common, disorders. The lower cost, and often safer use, has attracted many medical professionals. Some physicians use herbs to off-set the side effects of pharmaceuticals.

    Timeline of the History of Herbal Medicine

    No one knows, for sure, when humans began using herbs for medicinal purposes. The first written record of herbal medicine use showed up in 2800 B.C. in China. Since then the use of herbs has gained, and fallen out of, favor many times in the medical field. The timeline that follows shows some of the key dates and major points in the history of herbal medicine.

    2800 B.C.– The first written record of herbal medicine use showed up. (Titled the Pen Ts’ao by Shen Nung)

    400 B.C.– The Greeks joined the herbal medicine game. Hippocrates stressed the ideas that diet, exercise and overall happiness formed the foundation of wellness.

    50 A.D.– The Roman Empire spread herbal medicine around the Empire, and with it the commerce of cultivating herbs.

    200 A.D.– The first classification system that paired common illnesses with their herbal remedy appeared. This was prepared by the herbal practitioner Galen.

    800 A.D.– Monks took over the herbal field with herbal gardens at most monasteries and infirmaries for the sick and injured.

    1100 A.D.– The Arab world became a center of medicinal influence. Physician Avicenna wrote the Canon of Medicine, which gave mention to herbal medicines.

    1200 A.D.– Black Death spread across Europe and herbal medicines were used along side “modern” methods such as bleeding, purging, arsenic and mercury with equal, or better, results.

    1500 A.D.– Herbal medicine and herbalists were promoted and supported by Henry VII and the Parliament, due to the large number of untrained apothecaries giving substandard care.

    1600 A.D.– Herbs were used in treating the poor, while extracts of plant, minerals, and animals (the “drugs”), were used for the rich. The English Physician, an herbal explaining the practice of herbal medicine, was written during this time.

    1700 A.D.– Herbal medicine got another high profile endorsement from Preacher Charles Wesley. He advocated for sensible eating, good hygiene and herbal treatments for healthy living.

    1800 A.D.– Pharmaceuticals began to hit the scene and herbal treatments took a back seat. As side effects from the drugs began to be documented, herbal remedies came into favor again. The National Association of Medical Herbalists was formed, and later renamed the National Institute of Medical Herbalists (NIMH.)

    1900 A.D.– lack of availability of drugs during World War I increased the use of herbal medicines again. After the war pharmaceutical production increased and penicillin was discovered. Herbal practitioners had their rights to dispense their medications taken away and then reinstated. The British Herbal Medicine Association was founded and produced the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia. People began to express the concern over the large number of side effects and environmental impact of the drugs of the 1950s.

    2000 A.D.– EU took action on regulation and testing of herbal medicines similar to those used for pharmaceuticals.

    Herbal medicines have been documented for almost 4000 years. These medicines have survived real world testing and thousands of years of human testing. Some medicines have been discontinued due to their toxicity, while others have been modified or combined with additional herbs to offset side effects. Many herbs have undergone changes in their uses. Studies conducted on the herbs and their effects keep changing their potential uses.

    Herbal Medicine Today

    Herbal medicines are still in use today. In some respects they have gained a new momentum in the medical field. As many people seek alternative treatments and begin to check out traditional, and Eastern, medicine, herbs are becoming more popular. As physicians seek new treatments for many common illnesses they are beginning to revisit the traditional remedies, using herbal medicines.

    Pharmaceutical medications, with their potential for harmful side effects and addiction, are becoming less popular. People are seeking alternatives to the modern medical interventions. Improving, and maintaining, health naturally is a very popular approach to overall wellness.

    The herbs used today are generally cultivated for those purposes. Very few herbs are harvested from the wild, with the exception of a few still found in the rainforests and higher elevations. The cultivation of herbs for medicinal uses is a large field and more people are beginning to plant their own herb gardens. Many monasteries continue to grow large herbal gardens within their walls.

    Elderly people also metabolize medications differently, and generally are on more medications, and therefore must also exercise caution when trying new herbal treatments. Underlying ailments that may affect the body’s ability to process or absorb medications are also an issue.

    The history of herbal medicine has been both long and colorful. From the early Chinese Empires to modern physicians’ offices, herbal medicines have continued to be a part of the medical field. Herbal treatments have matured throughout history, along with the methods of delivering them. In the beginning, the herbs were used in a hit or miss method and required major events to change their use. Research and clinical trials have helped to shape the field of medicine, and the future for herbal medicine looks bright.

    By Leave a Comment

    Ayurvedic Herbal Medicine – History

    Ayurvedic medicine began over 5000 years ago in the Himalayan Mountains of India. Legend holds that a great meeting of the wisest healers took place in a Himalayan cave, where they shared their healing secrets. Some of these men traveled thousands of miles, bringing their knowledge of medicinal herbs from their tribes. These healers combined their knowledge and called this new body of medicine Ayurveda. This name came from two Sanskrit words; “Ayus” meaning “life” and “Veda” which means “knowledge.” The translation is “knowledge of life” or “science of life.”

    These traditions were passed orally from generation to generation. Each physician added to them as they developed new ideas. This continued until the first century A.D. when Charaka, an Ayurvedic physician, finally wrote them down. At that time Ayurvedic medicine had specialists in the areas of psychiatry, pediatrics, gynecology, ear/nose and throat, ophthalmology, surgery, virility and fertility.
    Ayurvedic herbal medicine is probably the earliest organized medical system, pre-dating even traditional Chinese medicine. The Arabs had traded for Indian herbs before the birth of Islam. The ancient tombs of Egyptian pharaohs contained seeds from plants native to India. Eastern traders brought the knowledge of Indian herbs down through Tibet and into China. The Queen of Sheba, during the time of King Solomon, traded herbs and spices from India to the Israelites.

    Ayurveda was practiced by many Arab physicians during the rise of the Greek and Roman empires. This knowledge was passed to the Greeks and Romans who helped spread it throughout Europe. Even after the fall of the Roman empire, Europeans continued to value Indian spices. They traded with Arab countries for them. This trade led to the discovery of America. Christopher Columbus was searching for a shorter route to India to trade spices when he landed in the New World.

    Western science and medicine has been slow to accept the philosophy and ideas of Ayurvedic medicine, but many individuals in the West have recognized its value. More and more physicians are finding value in these ancient principles and their herbal formulas.

    Philosophy of Ayurvedic Herbal Medicine

    The Ayurvedic philosophy of medicine is truly a holistic approach. Ayurveda is based on the philosophy that health is dependent upon a person living in harmony with their internal and external world. Traditionally, mental health was as important as physical health. It was taught that in order to live a healthy, productive life one had to balance their mental, physical, and spiritual well-being.

    Ayurvedic herbal medicine is the grandfather of modern preventative medicine. Ayurvedic physicians taught the importance of disease prevention for thousands of years. It was believed that the best medicine was to build up the immune system for a natural defense against disease and illness. The goal of Ayurveda has always been to maintain optimal health throughout life so that the individual can develop the necessary awareness of his or her connection with the life principle.

    This goal is achieved through the balance of nutrition, herbal remedies, and mental and spiritual development. Traditional ayurvedic principles, including herbal supplementation, were started in childhood and continued for life. This helped promote a lifelong development of well-being.

    Ayurvedic Principles

    Ayurvedic herbal medicine physicians recognize three major physiological (body) types. The three types, or Doshas, are the Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. The body type is determined by heredity and is often referred to as Prakriti. Physicians will often interview, observe, and use a technique called pulse diagnoses to determine a patient’s body type, which is often a combination; such as Vata/Pitta. After determining body type, the physician will determine any imbalances and what approaches may be needed to bring balance. This is often done through herbal supplementation or dietary changes.

    Other treatments may include hatha yoga, acupuncture, massage therapies, aromatherapy and music therapy. The use of natural remedies and herbal treatments produces little or no side effects, commonly seen with pharmaceutical interventions. The prevention approach also reduces the need for many different treatments to offset the effects of drugs used to combat a particular illness or disorder. The natural approach to health and wellness is becoming much more popular, in lieu of drug therapies and surgery.

    Ayurvedic Herbalism

    Herbs and herbal combinations make up a large part of ayurvedic medicine. Most ayurvedic herbal remedies are combinations rather than single herbs. These herbal formulas are based on centuries of knowledge. Ayurveda focuses on internal, organ, health; as opposed to the external, muscle and physique, health common in the western view of health. The herbal formulas are designed to support organ health and balance internal function. This approach balances internal health with the external environment.


    Herbs in ayurveda are used to prevent and treat most conditions. There are herbal remedies for asthma, bronchitis, fever, intestinal disorders, and cold/flu treatment. Treatments designed to control blood sugar, improve energy levels, reduce pain and inflammation, and improve digestion are also a part of ayurvedic medicine. Infertility, erectile dysfunction, menstrual health, and sexual function are also commonly treated with herbs.

    Many herbal combinations are designed to strengthen or heal organs such as the pancreas, kidneys, liver, heart, and brain. Others are beneficial to complete organ systems like the circulatory, respiratory, adrenal, reproductive, or digestive systems. The herbs, and herbal formulas, developed by ayurvedic physicians throughout its history are being accepted by western medicine and science. Studies and research are showing that these herbs are beneficial in many ways. Herbal remedies are becoming popular in the mainstream due to their relative safety and their availability without a prescription.

    In Conclusion

    Ayurvedic herbal medicine is based on thousands of years of knowledge in natural medicine and herbal formulas. A balance between the individual and the cosmos is the foundation for this holistic health approach. Focusing on the health of the organs and organ systems, and not waiting for illness to take hold, but instead preventing it, make this a proactive approach to wellness. Physicians use their knowledge of the physiological types and the appropriate balances to develop appropriate herbal and dietary plans to regain and maintain that balance. Ayurveda is a body of medicine that takes an individual’s mental, physical and spiritual health into consideration and looks at wellness as the true indicator of health.

    By Leave a Comment

    Medicinal Herbs Safety Guidelines

    Medicinal herbs, and their extracts, have been used for thousands of years for their medicinal properties. Many traditional uses are based on superstition, or spiritual basis, with no clinical trials or research to support the results. Some traditional medicinal herb use is based on trial and error, and is supported by real-world, results based evidence. Traditional medicine is based strongly in herbal remedies, whether supported by real-world results or spiritual basis.

    Western medicine is beginning to look at the use of herbal remedies as alternatives to synthetic drugs as well. Most modern pharmaceuticals have a historical base in herbal medicine, and many are derived from herbal extracts, at least initially.

    Many people choose to use herbal supplements in their overall health routine. Some people choose herbal remedies over prescription drug therapies because of the perceived safety of these remedies. While these treatments are natural, they are not always safe. It is important to approach a new herbal treatment or supplement routine the same way you approach any treatment, with caution and good research.

    Herbs Safety Guidelines

    First, it is important to remember that herbal remedies are medicine. They must be approached like any other medicine. Each person will react to an herbal medicine a little differently. Some people may have allergic reactions to certain herbs, ranging from mild to severe anaphylactic reactions. Herbal medicines should be stored in a safe, secure location just like all other medications. Herbal medicines may interact with other drugs, or may have specific side effects that exacerbate certain conditions, and therefore should be disclosed to your doctor or other medical staff, just like any drug medication.

    Special Populations

    herbs safety
    Medicinal Herbs safety Guidelines
    Certain people may be more susceptible to the adverse effects of some herbal supplements. These people may not know how they will react to herbs until they try them. There are certain populations that must use extra caution when using herbal supplements. These people should always research the herbs they intend to use and consult their physician before starting any treatment program.

    Pregnant women, women who are breast-feeding and even those trying to become pregnant should be careful with herbal supplements. Many medications, herbal or otherwise, can easily cross the placental barrier and reach the developing infant or pass through the bloodstream into breast milk and be delivered to an infant that way.

    Children are another group who need to use caution with herbal supplementation. There are many medicinal herbs that may be beneficial to children but they must be taken with caution. It is a common misconception when it comes to medications that children are just small adults. This is not true, they metabolize medications differently and their bodies react differently. Their lack of exposure to many substances also increases the chance for an unexpected allergic reaction.

    Elderly people also metabolize medications differently, and generally are on more medications, and therefore must also exercise caution when trying new herbal treatments. Underlying ailments that may affect the body’s ability to process or absorb medications are also an issue.

    People with certain medical conditions should approach medicinal herbs with caution. Diabetics, people with cardiovascular conditions, respiratory patients, cancer patients (especially those undergoing chemotherapy), people with kidney or liver ailments, or those with immune conditions should consult their physician before using any herbal treatments. Herbs may interact with the medications a person is already taking to combat their illness.

    Consult With Your Physician

    Before starting a new treatment program it is important to consult with a physician. This holds true for herbal treatments, as well as exercise and diet changes. Herbal medicines may interact with other drug therapies or herbal treatments. A physician may be able to guide your treatment program and monitor your reaction to certain therapies. It is important to let your physician know all of the vitamins, minerals and herbal supplements.

    Some herbs may affect the rate that the body absorbs certain medications. They may also cause the body to get rid of the medications quicker. Some cause a reduction in the effect of certain medications, while others cause an increase in the effect. Many herbal remedies mimic the effects of certain pharmaceutical treatments and, therefore, taking them with those drugs may cause the potential for overdosing. A physician may be able to adjust the dosage or schedule of certain treatments to make up for the addition of herbal supplements.

    It is important to note that not all physicians are familiar with all herbal supplements. You may want to research the herbal remedies and present this information to your physician. The physician may have the necessary information on any pharmaceutical treatments but not all the possible herbal treatments. An herbal specialist may be able to help you with this information and even direct you toward the right herbs for your specific needs.

    Research the Herbs

    Researching the herbs, whether for your own information or for convincing your physician, can be accomplished using many different sources. Some stores offer information resources for the products they sell. Many online stores offer articles and information right on their site to help consumers make informed decisions about the products. The internet offers a multitude of other opportunities to research herbs and herbal supplements. It is important to check multiple sources to make sure you are getting all the information and not just information directed by a particular supplement company. The library is another great resource for herbal information. Lastly, practitioners of traditional medicine and herbal medicine specialists are good sources of information on many herbal supplements and their uses.

    Standards for Herbal Supplements

    Herbal supplements are not controlled by regulatory boards like pharmaceutical medications are. Many herbal extracts are standardized for their active ingredients. This allows a comparison between brands. Since the active ingredients are what cause the effects associated with the herbs, it is important to know how much of the active ingredients are in each supplement. The issue with herbal supplements is that because there are no regulations on the herbal claims it is hard to determine what is true and what is hype.

    Most companies that produce herbal supplements are reputable and only use what they list, however their label claims may be exaggerated or worded in a deceptive manner. Be wary of herbal supplements that make claims such as, “100% safe” or “Natural herbs produce no side effects.” Any herbal supplement that tries to claim it is “As good as…” or “Better than…” a prescription medication “without any side effects” should be approached with caution. Ask around and find out what supplements people have had success with and what ones get good reviews.

    Dosing Safety

    Many people fall into the trap of thinking that since an herbal supplement is natural it is safe to take as much as they want. Overdosing, or increased side effects, is just as possible with potent herbal medications as with any drug. “More is better” is a dangerous concept when applied to herbal supplements. It is important to research the safe dosages for any herb before taking it. It is also important to follow the manufacturer´s recommended dosage, as outlined on the bottle. This is due to the varying amounts of active ingredients in each supplement.

    ENJOYING THIS CONTENT?

    Then subscribe to the mailing list and get updates to your email inbox!

    Thank you for subscribing.

    Something went wrong.

    We respect your privacy and take protecting it seriously