Types of Natural Herbs & What They Are Used for

According to the U.K.'s National Institute of Medical Herbalists, "Medical herbalists train for at least three years, receive botanical and medical training, and adhere to a strict code of conduct." These professionals are among those who study natural herbs, a practice which dates back to ancient times. Today, people can grow their own herbs for culinary and medicinal purposes, or find them at apothecary and wellness shops. Using any of the hundreds of nature's healing plants requires a keen understanding of their true function, potential dangers and what parts of the plants to use.

Basics

• Nature offers more than beauty, but you must have thorough plant knowledge to choose sensibly.

  Herbs come in different prepared forms such as dried leaf, infusions, syrups, tinctures and powders. Compresses and poultices can be made from different herbs, too. The various parts of plants used include leaves, stalks, roots, tubers, bark and flowers. To prepare herbal remedies requires training, knowledge and skill, which some people mistakenly assume they can glean from reading a few articles in magazines or online. Use caution and common sense when dealing with herbs or, if you want to learn more about herbal medicine, contact a qualified herbalist.

Comfrey

• Symphytum officinale, or comfrey, is a prolific and beautiful plant in the garden. Long used for healing wounds, cuts and burns, comfrey's healing capabilities are reflected in the plant itself. When it's cut or broken, new plants easily regrow from root pieces. They sprout everywhere and spread if not harvested a couple times a year. Comfrey is also used internally, to support the digestive, urinary and respiratory systems.

Garlic

• Garlic has many uses and is relatively easy to grow.

  The botanical name for garlic is Allium sativum. You have probably cooked with it, especially if you prepare Mediterranean-based food recipes. But garlic has healing properties, too. Garlic improves cardiovascular health, can lower blood pressure, stabilizes blood sugar, reduces cholesterol, and improves heart function. Because garlic helps in building the immune system, it is also considered an important element for cancer and other illnesses. Growing it in your own garden is quite simple and you can harvest many bulbs from a relatively small space.

Childbearing Years

• Long ago, in cultures around the world, midwives were respected as those who knew much about using herbs to help women during their childbirthing years. From menarche to menopause, herbs were available and used with success. Today, many modern licensed, certified and nurse-midwives, as well as doulas (childbirth assistants), help women during pregnancy, labor and postpartum. Beyond following a healthy diet and exercise regime, coupled with regular prenatal vists, common herbs women may use are nettle, red clover, raspberry leaf, peppermint and chamomile as teas or infusions. Calendula helps with sensitive skin and other issues. Consult your midwife, herbalist or physician for particular advice.