Herbs & Healing

Herbs have been used for healing since the beginning of time. Often discounted because treatments were surrounded by secrecy, magic or folklore, modern medicine sometimes overlooks the simplest and safest treatment options for medical conditions; however science also looks to these old-fashioned remedies as sources for new cures and solutions.

History

• The healing power of herbs has long been recognized by traditional cultures as an important path to holistic healing and health. For internal and external conditions, herbs are used to cure chronic and acute conditions as well as to promote general health maintenance and well-being. In modern times, pharmaceutical companies have looked towards herbal traditions to isolate and synthetically reproduce the compounds important to healing the body.

Benefits

• Although the FDA regulates little in the way of herbal cures and classifies most simply as "dietary supplements", the use of herbs for health is widespread throughout the U.S. and the world. Many individuals find herbs to benefit them in a holistic way that pharmaceuticals do not with fewer side effects or adverse reactions. While standard medicines are often based on individual compounds that have been proven to be effective for specific ailments, herbs contain not only the beneficial isolate but many more besides that may act symbiotically, creating a more effective delivery and absorption.

Considerations

• Herbs are often used in combination with each other. With few exceptions it has been found that the potency and efficacy of certain herbs are enhanced by pairing them with additional curatives that have similar or related effects. Since herbs are natural and are derived from the roots, stems, leaves, flowers, seeds and saps of plants, many assume dosage is not an important factor; however it is critical for proper treatment to follow recommended dosages for the condition that is being controlled.

Misconceptions

• Because herbs have been used traditionally in tribal and isolated cultures that may pair healing with practices like shamanism, magic or other unorthodox rites, many believe that the power of herbs is overstated. While studies have shown that a user's belief in a specific cure can make it more effective, studies also prove that herbal medicine can be a safe and effective treatment option when prescribed correctly. The enduring use of herbs in traditional cultures as well as in modern life and cultures solidifies the value of these cures.

Warning

• As with any product, users should be aware of risks associated with taking herbs as well as any interactions between herbs and conventional medicines. Allergies can also cause problems so new supplements should be started at a low dose and increased as tolerance is determined. Keeping a diary is helpful for tracking changes, both positive and negative, when beginning a new treatment regimen.