The Roots of Herbal Medicine

Piper excelsum (Kawakawa)

Traditional Use of Herbs

Herbal medicine has been used for centuries across various regions of the world, including Europe, China, and India to, support health and prevent illness. It is an ancient practice that involves using different parts of medicinal plants, such as the leaves, roots, flowers, and seeds, to positively influence natural processes within the body.

Herbal remedies can be crafted in many ways, from herbal extracts and tonics to less potent forms such as herbal tea and topical balms and creams. Traditionally, many herbs were considered for their energetic actions within the human body. Whether they had warming or cooling properties, bitter or sweet taste, or stimulating or calming effects.

You may find many medicinal plants in forests, parks, and in your back garden, such as dandelion, lavender, peppermint, and kawakawa. Common household spices are also considered to have therapeutic benefits, such as turmeric and ginger for their anti-inflammatory benefits, and fennel for it digestive support.

Herbal Tincture

Modern Herbal Medicine

Herbal medicine has been the foundation for wellbeing for centuries and has influenced many modern treatments. In fact, nearly 40% of today’s pharmaceuticals have come from natural sources. An example is the common pain reliever Aspirin, which originated from the traditional practice of using willow bark to reduce pain and fever. Willow bark contains a constituent called salicin, which is thought to contribute to its pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory actions.

In recent years, some herbs have gained recognition due to their benefits for certain organs. For instance, milk thistle has become a popular remedy for supporting liver health. Milk thistle helps to protect liver cells from damage and can even support their regeneration. The bitter properties of this herb can also stimulate bile production in the liver, supporting digestion and nutrient absorption.

Other medicinal herbs are known for their ability to help the body adapt and cope with stress. These are known as adaptogens - examples include american ginseng and ashwagandha. They are often derived from the roots of plants, as they take a long time to grow and mature, which may to contribute to their unique therapeutic effects.

Using Herbs Wisely

Herbal medicine is generally seen as a gentler approach than conventional medicine; however, it’s important to remember that natural remedies can still carry risks. If taken at the wrong dose or in combination with some medications, this can lead to unwanted side effects. Some herbs may also be contraindicated with certain health conditions, so it is important to seek the advice of a naturopath or medical herbalist for safe prescribing.

Herbal medicine can be a wonderful way to support the body from the inside out. When combined with regular exercise, nourishing foods, and quality sleep, they can be a great addition to your overall well-being. Making use of the herbs you have in your kitchen cupboard or your garden can be a great way to introduce these beneficial plants into your lifestyle.

References

World Health Organization. (2023, August 10). Traditional medicine has a long history of contributing to conventional medicine and continues to hold promise. https://www.who.int/news-room/feature-stories/detail/traditional-medicine-has-a-long-history-of-contributing-to-conventional-medicine-and-continues-to-hold-promise

Chevallier, A. (2016). Encyclopedia of herbal medicine (3rd ed.). DK Publishing.