Herbal medicine which is also called botanical medicine or phytomedicine -- refers to using a plant's seeds, berries, roots, leaves, bark, or flowers for medicinal purposes. Many of the mainstream pharmaceuticals have a strong base of herbs.
Today the use of and search for medicinal plants has accelerated. Major pharmaceutical companies are combing the Earth for herbs that can be somehow used for the treatment of various diseases. We are re-discovering the healthy, healing powers of the humble herb. The World Health Organization (WHO) recently estimated 80% of people worldwide rely on herbal medicines for part of their primary healthcare needs. In the last 20 years, here in the United States, we have had a rapid increase in herbal medicine use. Dissatisfaction with the costs both financial and physical, as well as our return to natural and organic has fueled this trend. Also quality control and clinical research is showing the value of herbal medicine in treating and preventing disease.
Herbal medicine works to support the body to heal, not just treat symptoms.
Some conditions Herbs may treat are:
- asthma
- eczema
- premenstrual syndrome
- rheumatoid arthritis
- migraine
- menopausal symptoms
- chronic fatigue
- irritable bowel syndrome
Herbal supplements are best taken under the guidance of a trained health care provider. Be sure to consult with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any herbs.
