Since prehistory, humans are known to use herbs as remedies for all kinds of ailments and over a thousand species of plants were recorded for their healing properties. A good example is the depiction of plants as healing agents in the Lascaux caves in France which was dated with Radiocarbon dating process and the result revealed that it was made between 13,000-25,000 BCE
Chemical compounds produced in plants especially those made to protect themselves against predators such as toxins and to fertilize such as pollens, are all known to have therapeutic actions to human bodies. Some well known examples are inulin from the roots of dahlias, quinine from the cinchona, morphine and codeine from the poppy, and digoxin from the foxglove.
Today, herbal medicines are categorized as complementary and alternative medicines (CAM). CAMs are becoming very popular but especially so in Europe where CAMs are mainly produced.
There are numerous types of CAMs, but the most popular of all are herbal teas which are made mainly of leaves, roots and barks of plants. Well known herbal teas are chamomile, peppermint and ginger teas.
Second most popular remedy is the herbal tinctures, which are made by soaking the medicinal parts of plants in alcohol extracts and as a result, they can be stored for a much longer period of time. An herbalist can combine many tinctures and made them into one formula for a particular patient. Similarly, fluid extracts of plants are made in the same way as the tinctures, except that they are much stronger.
Powdered herbs and tablets are probably the easiest to consume and nowadays almost every medicinal herb has been made into tablet and capsule forms. However, some traditional herbalists may argue that the process in making tablets and powder which involve heating and drying may reduce the medicinal properties of the plants.
Herbal ointments and essential oils are for external use only. Ointments are used to treat wounds and rashes, while essential oils are used mainly because of their therapeutic scents that are believed to have effects to the human body and mind. This type of therapy is called aromatherapy and is increasingly becoming very popular all over the world.
Herbal remedies have been around for thousands of years and are hear to stay. They provide a great alternative to over the counter medicne at a greatly reduced price. Anyone who is considering to try an herbal remedy should give it a go because the Pro's greatly out weight the Con's.
Peoples choice in diet and ways to keep themselves healthy reflect their desire for a simpler and more natural way of life. Accordingly, they also want their treatment for injury or illness to reflect that desire.
Arnica is a great herbal remedy. Found in creams, ointments, and water-based gels, it is a plant-based herbal remedy. It is great at healing bruises than if you left them alone. There's a very low toxicity and it's inexpensive! Along with healing bruises, it may also reduce any discomfort that bruising has.
Another fine herbal remedy comes from the slippery elm plant. For generations, this natural remedy has successfully been used to treat upset stomachs and indigestion. However, its most notable usage is for treating sore throats and laryngitis. Brewed into a hot tea, it helps relieve throat pain and helps restore the voice quite quickly. Although it is not unpleasant to taste, it is usually found combined with other herbs.
The effectiveness of St. Johns wart as a treatment for depression and mental issues was discovered by Europe, long before the USA. It's similar to SSRI, but is available over the counter and safe for treatment. People with high blood pressure, on the other hand, should be more careful.
Cohosh has become a very popular herbal remedy, especially among women. Black and blue cohosh are both used to deal with menstrual cramps, symptoms related to menopause, and other health problems specific to women. Many women distrust artificial hormones because of their side effects, so herbal products have gained popularity as a result.
A number of different herbal remedies can also be used to alleviate or prevent health problems. However, even all-natural products can cause negative side effects or adversely interact with prescribed or over the counter medications. Thus, you should always inform and check with your health care provider before starting any new herbal regimens.
Are you ever thinking about treating a medical condition with an herbal remedy, or decided to try a herbal supplement as a way to maintain health? You will be glad to know, you are not alone since natural health remedies are very popular and often very effective as well. Your choice of diet and general outlook about health reflect the desire for a simpler and more natural way of life. Naturally, you would want the treatment of injuries or illness to reflect that same desire. There are a multitude of herb-based supplements specifically designed to bolster your health and prevent illness and disease.
Both Daniel Millions & Michele Robbins are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Daniel Millions has sinced written about articles on various topics from Lose Weight, Cars and Writing. Daniel Millions. Daniel Millions's top article generates over 301000 views. to your Favourites.
Michele Robbins has sinced written about articles on various topics from Health, Alternative Medicine and Health. Before you take a , there are several criteria to consider so you get only the best quality herbal supplements. Read this. Michele Robbins's top article generates over 1900 views. to your Favourites.