Herbal Medicines
Herbal medicine has its origins in ancient cultures. It involves the medicinal use of plants to treat disease and enhance general health and wellbeing. People generally are now moving towards using alternative natural herbal medicines from lab-synthesized pharmaceutical medicines.
Medical uses for Specific herbs as medicine
Herbal medicines work to program your body to a condition of natural balance so that healing takes place naturally. Different herbs used work on different systems of the body. These herbal medicines are available as over the counter health supplements and blended with vitamins; available as herbal vitamin pills.
Some of the herbs that are normally used in herbal medicine as active ingredients, and their traditional uses, include:
chinacea
To stimulate the immune system and aid the body in fighting infection. Used to treat ailments such as boils, fever, and herpes
Dong Quai
Used for gynecological complaints, such as premenstrual tension, menopause symptoms, and period pain. Some studies indicate that dong quai can lower blood pressure
Garlic
Used to reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering levels of blood fats and cholesterol. The antibiotic and antiviral properties of garlic mean that it is also used to fight colds, sinusitis and other respiratory infections
Ginger
Many studies have shown ginger to be useful in treating nausea, including motion sickness and morning sickness. Ginger has been shown to be effective against exercise-induced muscle pain.
Ginkgo biloba
Commonly used to treat poor blood circulation and tinnitus. Ginkgo contains high levels of flavonoids and terpenoids, which are compounds known for their strong antioxidant effects. Ginkgo has been repeatedly evaluated for its ability to reduce anxiety, stress and other symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive decline associated with aging.
Ginseng
Generally used to treat weakness, for example during recovery from illness. Also used to reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels, however overuse of ginseng has been associated with raised blood pressure.
Hypericum
Commonly known as St John’s wort. Studies have suggested that St John’s wort is just as effective as some pharmaceutical antidepressants in treating mild to moderate depression. It is also used for anxiety and insomnia.
Purchase herbal medicine from a reputed pharmacist or supplier
Not all herbal medicines that are sold are safe. Always purchase products from a reputable practitioner or pharmacist. Unregulated herbal medicines from overseas may not be manufactured to the same quality and standard as regulated medicines and have been found to have dangerous levels of lead, mercury or arsenic, which can cause serious health problems.