Herbal Medicines

The use of Herbal Medicine is gaining popularity, due to a desire to return to nature.

Herbal treatments were used around the world for centuries before conventional Western medicine came along.

Never the less, most Conventional physicians don’t consider Alternative Herbal Medicine to be therapeutically valid.

 What does it cover?

Herbal Medicine, sometimes called botanical medicine or phytomedicine, involves the use of plants for medically therapeutic purposes. Depending on the plant, a number of plant parts may be used as Medicine, including the seeds, berries, roots, leaves, bark and flowers.

Herbs have been used as Medicine for centuries and today, traditional Chinese Medical physicians and Ayurvedic practitioners use some of the same formulas used long ago to heal and prevent disease.

How does it work?

The use of Herbal Medicine has always been standard medical practice in some countries. Herbal treatments usually combine several herbs into one formula. The effects of herbal medicines tend to be safer for long-term use. Herbal treatments can vary according to specific needs. In case of a serious attack on the body, herbs give a quick and precious boost. Many herbs benefit bodily systems simultaneously. Herbal formulas that are made up of several herbs, can be modified and tailored to individual needs.

Practitioners who might prescribe herbal medicine include chiropractors, naturopaths, pharmacists, and some MD’s. As Naturopathic physician, Dr. Jennifer Potter, explains, “the biological components work in a synergistic way with our bodies”.  Western Medicine and Herbal Medicine are not mutually exclusive and they can be used together to achieve great results. For patients with depression, anxiety or psychiatric illness, Herbal Medicines are safer and more effective.

Benefits of Herbal treatments:

They have little side-effects.

They tend to be more effective with chronic conditions.

 They have lower costs and better availability.

Disadvantages of Herbal treatments:

Inappropriate for many conditions.

Lack of instructions pertaining to proper dosage.

Risks of poisoning associated with wild herbs.

Allergic reactions.

Medication interactions.

Lack of regulation.

Many side effects can occur from the interaction of Herbal Medicines with Pharmaceutical medications.

When to use Herbal Medicine?

Herbal Medicine should be taken seriously and prescribed by a qualified licensed professional. The use of Herbal Medicines is for promoting health and therapy for chronic illnesses, as opposed to life-threatening conditions. It is perfect for treating moderate diseases. Herbs as Medicine are used when your body needs an extra boost to bring it back into balance. They should not be taken for extended periods of time.