For thousands of years, people all over the world have used healing plants or plant derivatives to treat illness and enhance the body's functioning. Alongside advances in medical science and technology, herbs still remain one of the most widely prescribed remedies throughout the world and have proved to be an effective treatment for a variety of acute and chronic ailments.

Herbal medicines come in a wide variety of forms, including fresh or dried plant elements, teas, compresses, ointments, poultices, tablets, capsules or bottled tinctures. They may be packaged individually or specially combined to treat certain conditions.

How do herbs benefit health?

Herbs are a valuable means of maintaining good health and warding off illness. The effect of the herbs will differ from plant to plant, but in general, the purpose is to improve and strengthen the overall functioning of a particular organ or system.

The herb echinacea, for example, which comes from the purple coneflower plant, strengthens the immune system and fends off infection by stimulating the production of disease-fighting white blood cells.

Many conventional medicines also owe their origins to medicinal plants. Nearly 25% of all prescription drugs and 60% of over-the-counter drugs are produced from natural elements. The prescription drug digitoxin, which comes from foxglove, is used to stimulate and regulate the heart.

Morphine is made from the opium poppy. Belladonna provides the heart stimulant and treatment for Parkinson's disease known as atropine. The periwinkle plant is used to product the cancer drug vincristine. Every year, medical researchers uncover new medicines from the various components of plants.

Should I see a qualified herbalist?

Yes. Although some herbal medicines can be bought over-the-counter in pharmacies and health food stores, it is best to seek the advice of a qualified medical herbalist.

A medical herbalist uses the roots, stems, leaves, flowers and berries of a plant to prevent and cure illness. During an initial consultation, the practitioner will assess your condition by observing your skin tone, eye clarity, pulse, tongue and overall energy levels. After the evaluation, various herbs are prescribed to strengthen the underlying body functions and relieve symptoms.

Natural medicines, although effective, do not act as quickly as manufactured drugs and you should always ask your practitioner how long it will take for the herbs to take effect. Once you begin to take the herbal prescription, take careful note of how it makes you feel. If you experience any side effects alert your herbalist. It may simply mean that a different prescription may be necessary.

Is herbalism suitable for everyone?

Herbal medicine is ideally suited to people who seek an alternative to conventional prescription drugs. By their very nature, herbal preparations work gently and address the underlying problem associated with an illness.

For people who are concerned about avoiding alcohol, it is important to note that some herbal tinctures do contain it. If you are avoiding alcohol, inform your herbalist or, if you are buying over-the-counter herbal remedies from a health food store, carefully check the label on the container.

Alcohol may be evaporated from tinctures by heating an appropriate dose with one quarter cup of near boiling water, however, the mixture must be allowed to cool for a few minutes before drinking.

Is it safe?

Herbs and herbal medicines can have powerful effects and should not be taken lightly. Although most herbs are non-toxic, some may have harmful side effects. Be aware of any possible adverse reactions a herb may cause before you begin to take it.

Watch for any signs of rash, headache, stomach ache or any other unpleasant symptoms. Stop using the herb immediately if you experience an adverse reaction and consult your herbalist or health care provider.

Some herbs may interfere with the effects of conventional prescription drugs, so if you are under the care of a medical doctor, inform him or her of any supplements you may be taking.

Although adverse reactions are unlikely if the herbal remedy is taken in the recommended dosage, problems can occur if the herb is taken continuously for too long. Discuss all potential side effects with a qualified medical herbalist before embarking on any form of self-care. As with most other aspects of healthy living, moderation is the key to producing the maximum result from herbal medicines.

Although European herbal products must adhere to strict guidelines, it is still possible for some products to be contaminated with undeclared toxic materials, pharmaceuticals or heavy metals. The European guidelines serve to standardise the herbal preparations according to their chemical or biochemical makeup. They also establish limits on toxins and ensure that the ingredients remain stable for a reasonable amount of time. As they are free from chemical pesticides and synthetic fertilisers, certified organic herbal products are almost always of better quality.

An herbal product can range from the better known European herbs to the less recognised Asian and South American remedies. Some botanicals have extremely well established safety records while others remain unproven.

As far as traditional medical science is concerned, most herbal preparations are still considered experimental. Because government regulation of herbal preparations is still in a formative stage, the quality of a product may vary from manufacturer to manufacture.

Five Popular Herbs and Their Uses

Echinacea: Boosts the immune system. Useful for colds and flu.
Garlic: Useful against bacteria, fungal infections, inflammation and blood clots. Lowers blood pressure and cholesterol.

Ginger: Increased protection against illness. Helps prevent nausea amd motion sickness. Useful for pregnant women who are experiencing morning sickness.

Ginseng: Stimulates the central nervous system. Helps alleviate fatigue and stress.

Goldenseal: Stimulates the central nervous system. Counteracts bacterial, fungal, gastrointestinal and eye infections, as well as inflammation