Herbal Wonders

History of Herbal Medicine

Plants had been used for medicinal purposes long before recorded history. For example, ancient Chinese and Egyptian papyrus writings describe medicinal plant uses. Indigenous cultures (such as African and Native American) used herbs in their healing rituals, while others developed traditional medical systems such as Traditional Chinese Medicine in which herbal therapies were used systematically. Scientists found that people in different parts of the globe tended to use the same or similar plants for the same purposes.

In the early 19th century, when methods of chemical analysis first became available, scientists began extracting and modifying the active ingredients from plants. In the U.S. Later, chemists began making their own version of plant compounds, beginning the transition from raw herbs to synthetic pharmaceuticals. Over time, the use of herbal medicines declined in favor of pharmaceuticals.

Recently, the World Health Organization estimated that 80% of people worldwide rely on herbal medicines for some aspect of their primary health care. In the last 20 years in the United States, increasing public dissatisfaction with the cost of prescription medications, combined with an interest in returning to natural or organic remedies, has led to an increase in the use of herbal medicines.

How are Herbs used?

The use of herbal supplements for medicinal purposes has increased dramatically over the past 30 years. Herbal supplements are classified as dietary supplements by the U.S. Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) of 1994. The FDA defines a dietary supplement as “…any product taken by mouth that contains a so-called ‘dietary ingredient’ and its label clearly states that it is a dietary supplement.” Per the provisions of DSHEA, herbal supplements — unlike pharmaceutical drugs — can be marketed without undergoing testing to prove their safety and efficacy. However, herbal supplements must be manufactured according to good manufacturing practices.

The most commonly used herbal supplements in the U.S. include echinacea (Echinacea purpurea and related species), St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum), ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba), garlic (Allium sativum), saw palmetto (Serenoa repens), ginseng (Panax ginseng, or Asian ginseng; and Panax quinquefolius, or American ginseng), goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis), valerian (Valeriana officinalis), kava (Piper methysticum), chamomile (Matricaria recutita), feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium), ginger (Zingiber officinale), evening primrose (Oenothera biennis), and milk thistle (Silybum marianum ).

Several herbs are often used together to enhance effectiveness and synergistic actions and to reduce toxicity. Health care providers must take many things into account when recommending herbs. For example, the species and variety of the plant, the plant’s habitat, how it was stored and processed, and whether or not there are contaminants (including heavy metals and pesticides).

What is Herbal Medicine good for?

Herbal medicine treats many conditions, such as asthma, eczema, premenstrual syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, migraine, menopausal symptoms, chronic fatigue, irritable bowel syndrome and more. Herbal supplements are best taken under the guidance of a trained health care provider. Be sure to consult with your doctor or pharmacist before self-treating.

Standardized herbal supplements are the best way to ensure proper dosages and effects similar to human clinical trials. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about which herbal supplements are the best choice for your health concerns.

Comparison of Herbal and Conventional Medicine

Conventional medications have a downside, many can cause harmful side effects and only serve to lessen the symptoms instead of treat the root problem. Furthermore, many conventional medicines are based on single compounds that bacteria become resistant to over time. Herbal remedies, on the other hand, are comprised of complex compounds that are difficult for bacteria to metabolize and use for colonization.

Natural remedies have the benefit of being non-toxic and devoid of side effects. They are also effective in treating the sickness as well as the root cause of the condition. Along with these important advantages, herbal medicines can boost immunity and enhance the body’s defenses and natural ability to combat the invasion of foreign pathogens.

Many herbs, such as goldenseal and garlic, have natural antibiotic and antiviral properties as well. Licorice soothes the throat, ginger prevents blood clots and lessens the risk of heart disease and herbal teas help reduce tension. There are herbs that can address respiratory, gastrointestinal, neurological and sexual problems as well. In many cases natural herbal remedies can even help in managing the side effects of aggressive treatments like chemotherapy.

In summary, there is much to gain from the use of natural remedies. They offer a safe and natural alternative to conventional medicine and are often times more effective. It is recommended that you do your research before trying out natural remedies so as to not get taken advantage of.