Herbalism As a Method of Medicine

The use of plants for healing is by far the world’s oldest and most widely known therapy. Since the beginning of time, the knowledge of herbal remedies has been handed down from generation to generation. With the growth of synthetic drug manufacturing, however, the direct use of medicinal plants for a time, became a thing of the past.

It is only recently that there has been an increase in interest in herbalism as a method of medicine that is safe, natural, and cheap.The purpose of herbal remedies is to stimulate the body’s own natural healing abilities by cleansing and rebalancing. Like the synthetic drugs, many herbs contain antibacterial and antiviral properties. The advantage of herbal remedies is their ability to rapidly return the body to a state of health without the damaging side effects; unlike synthetic drugs.

Herbs, correctly prescribed, can be combined to target, regulate, heal or tone any organ in the body, unless the tissue has been completely destroyed.The earliest known records of medicinal herbs date back to 3,000 BC, from northern China. The herbs identified in those records; such as, myrrh and frankincense, are still being used today. At that time, however, herbalism was often explained in terms of astrology and folklore.

From the 16th century on, the division between herbalism and allopathic medicine grew further and further apart. By the 19th century, published knowledge of herbalism had increased through advances in scientific botany, and a number of North American Indian herbal remedies had been added to the pharmacopoeia, the list of medicinal drugs. However, herbal cures were out of fashion.Pre-packaged medicines used in orthodox medical practice are in fact extracted from traditional medicinal herbs; such as digitalis and aspirin. Research establishments have confirmed the value of the traditional uses of whole herbs.

A qualified medical herbalist combines a sophisticated understanding of the human body with the knowledge of herbal pharmacopoeia. They are trained to search out the root cause of ailments and symptoms. Diarrhea, for example, may have many possible causes; among them, a viral infection, nervous stress, diet, or even contaminated water.

Although many herbs will correct the symptoms, it takes an experienced practitioner to identify the cause. For this reason it is wise to consult a professional, even if you have read about the effects of a remedy and matched it to an ailment.

Herbal nutrition is all about managing, protecting, perfecting, and preventing health concerns with natural healing herbs.

Know Your Nutrients in Herbs

We know herbs are used to flavor our foods and used to treat mild to severe illnesses. Have you ever considered the fact that herbs also provide nutrition to the body? Herbs do provide important vitamins and minerals but yet this wonderful fact is overlooked.

I have listed below some of the nutrients found in herbs. Keep your eyes open for herbs that appear in more than one listing such as alfalfa, dandelion. This tells you what a powerhouse these plants are. Many herbs have several minerals and vitamins.
Listed here are Vitamins A and B.


Vitamin A:

This helps to prevent skin diseases, night blindness and even skin cancer because it acts as an antioxidant. It also helps to repair mucus membrane cells and skin cells. It helps the body to use protein and slow down the aging process.

Herbs with Vitamin A:

Alfalfa, Black Cohosh, Borage, Burdock Root, Cayenne, Chickweed, Comfrey, Dandelion, Echinacea, Elder, Eyebright, Fennel, Goldenseal, Hops, Kelp, Lemongrass, Nettle, Oat Straw, Paprika, Parsley, Peppermint, Plantian, Raspberry Leaf, Red Clover and Rose Hips.


Vitamin B1:

This is also known as Thiamine which supports healthy circulation, helps with carb. metabolism and helps to create stomach aids such as Hydrochloric Acid. Any time you see "helps with carb. metabolism" that is a key to weight loss.


Herbs with Vitamin B1:

Alfalfa, Bladderwrack, Burdock Root, Catnip, Cayenne, Chamomile, Chickweed, Dandelion, Fenugreek, Hops, Nettle , Red Clover, Sage and Yarrow.


Vitamin B2:

This is known as Riboflavin and plays an important part of antibody and red cell formation. It also aids in the metabolism of carbs, fats and proteins. Consuming enough Riboflavin can prevent cataracts and birth defects.


Herbs with Vitamin B2:

Alfalfa, Bladderwrack, Burdock Root, Catnip, Cayenne, Chamomile, Chickweed, Dandelion, Eyebright, Fennel, Fenugreek, Ginseng, Hops, Nettle, Oat Straw, Parsley, Peppermint, Raspberry Leaf, Red Clover, Rose Hips and Sage.


Vitamin B3:

Vitamin B3 or Niacin is needed to support healthy circulation and skin, and again this nutrient helps with breaking down carbs, fats and protein. The B Vitamins are very helpful in regulating the metabolism. This also helps with memory and mental illnesses such as schizophrenia.


Herbs with Vitamin B3:

Alfalfa, Blue Cohosh, Burdock Root, Catnip, Cayenne, Chamomile, Chickweed, Eyebright, Fennel, Ginger, Hops, Licorice, Mullein, Nettle, Oat Straw, Parsley, Peppermint, Raspberry Leaf, Red Clover and Slippery Elm.


Vitamin B5:

This is required by all the cells of the body and is known as Pantothenic Acid. It helps with proper nerve function and is called the "anti-stress Vitamin" again like most of the B Vitamins this one also helps with metabolism.


Herbs with Vitamin B5:

Black Cohosh, Catnip, Eyebright and Red clover.


Vitamin B6:

Pyridoxine is a very important nutrient. It helps to retrack the formation of homocysteine, a toxic chemical which attacks the heart muscle and causes cholesterol deposits around the heart. A lack of Vitamin B6 has been found to be a contributing factor to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. This Vitamin also helps to maintain the potassium and sodium balance.


Herbs with Vitamin B6:

Alfalfa, Catnip, Oat Straw, Hawthorn Berries and Licorice.


Vitamin B12:

This is needed to combat Anemia, by helping to create red blood cells and utilizing Iron. It also helps to protect nerve endings and is linked to the production of Acetylcholine a neurotransmitter that assist in memory. Alzheimer's victims have a lower amount of this neurotransmitter.


Herbs with Vitamin B12:

Alfalfa, Bladderwrack, Dandelion, Hawthorn Berries, Hops, Mullien and White Oak Bark.

Wisdom Emotion

To find the universal elements enough; to find the air and the water exhilarating; to be refreshed by a morning walk or an evening saunter; to be thrilled by the stars at night; to be elated over a bird's nest or a wildflower in spring - these are some of the rewards of the simple life. ~ John Burroughs