Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.”
-Hippocrates
The art and science of healing with plants has been practiced for centuries. Teas, tinctures, salves and several other forms of herbal remedies have aided in healing since the beginning of civilization. These ancestral shrubs are super concentrated with nutrients. When we consume them our immune system is strengthened, which heightens our body’s ability to fight illness and disease.
The dictionary definition of an herb is “a flowering plant whose stem above ground does not become woody”. (www.dictionary.com). However, in the botanical world a medicinal herb is referred to any plant that can aid in healing. Some of the most trusted plants include Aloe Vera, Basil, Cayenne, Chamomile, Echinacea, Garlic, Ginger, Mint, Rosemary, Sage, Thyme, Tumeric, etc. We put these in our food but when used for healing purposes the dose, duration and preparation are quite different than in culinary use. Dosages vary according to the specific herb and ailment. Fortunately, when using time-honored and trusted herbs you don’t have to be as accurate with exact dosages as you do with prescription medication. A popular dilemma is not taking enough of the herbs or for a long enough time period to see the desired results.
Every person is different and allergic reactions happen. Usually when people have reactions to certain food and plants it is based on the unique structure of that individual’s tolerance and internal system rather than toxic levels in the plant. Common side effects from herbs are short-term and manageable such as nausea or itchy skin. Yet some dangerous plants do exist. These are often classified into an isolated group. Many of them are illegal or unavailable, and none of them are used in herbal medicine.
The foundation for natural medicine focuses treatment on targeting the core of the problem. Natural therapies include but are not limited to adequate nutrition, exercise regimen and herbal support. Stress reduction techniques such as meditation, massage, hydrotherapy and peaceful slumber have shown to lower cortisol levels which can help with anxiety, depression, digestive problems, heart disease and numerous other conditions.
This certainly does not mean conventional medicine is not of ample substance. Herbal remedies are not a cure-all solution. They are intended for common ailments like a sore throat, migraine, rash, etc. If a natural remedy does not heal a condition in an appropriate length of time or the condition gets worse medical attention should be sought. There is no question that serious illnesses and life threatening conditions need to be evaluated by a professional healthcare practitioner.
Western medicine and holistic healthcare are complementary to one another. Where one approach lacks the other one thrives. There is plenty of room for them to co-exist; the key is to have a knowledgeable insight on the distinct situations that these two approaches were designed for.
Having the ability to be self-reliant in your healthcare is empowering. Traditional herbs play a substantial role when used as a preventative measure. They are an effective and inexpensive way to preserve your health.