Herbology 101

Herbology is the study of the therapeutic properties of herbs and plants. An herbalist understands the uses, interactions, side effects and health benefits of taking either a single herb or a combination of plants and herbs.

Herbs and Disease

• Herbs have been used worldwide for centuries to cure and treat diseases and disorders. There are herbal remedies for colds and flu, diarrhea, constipation, acne, asthma and in some cases, even cancer.

Herbal Remedies

• Popular remedies include arnica for bruising, ginko bilboa for improving blood circulation to the brain and goldenseal for dyspepsia and acid indigestion. Gurana is often used as a mild stimulant and juniper berry as a diuretic for water retention.

How to Use Herbs

• Herbs can be administered in a variety of ways. There are medicinal herbal teas and infusions, gelatin capsules, oils and salves, tinctures and syrups, as well as herbal wines. Other ways of using herbs include douches, often used for vaginal infections and skin problems, enemas, poultices and suppositories.