It is the oldest form of medicinal healing known to humans. Although it is classified as an alternative therapy, it is the most widely practiced form of medicine used worldwide, with over 80% of the world’s population relying on herbs for health.
but instead support the body’s own natural tendency to heal itself. Herbal products are derived from roots, stems, flowers or leaves of plants and prepared as liquid extracts, capsules, tablets, infusions, lozenges, tinctures, lotions, salves, compresses or poultices.
Herbal foods nurture our wholeness and wellbeing and can be used for the safe alleviation of illness. Herbal medicine has been used to treat or alleviate virtually every possible medical condition. You have likely consumed an herbal tea, like chamomile, to soothe nerves, relax or even invigorate, or eaten food prepared with herbs and spices, like turmeric and ginger.
A naturopath, Ayurvedic physician, or Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner may recommend herbal remedies as part of a holistic treatment or you may seek out an herbalist.