What Are Herbs

Defining Herbs

There are many definitions to the term “herbs.” From the lowly dandelion (often referred to as a weed) to the magnificent willow, all fit at least one definition of the term.

What do I need to know about herbs?

It’s important to know what you are taking and whether or not it will interact with any other herbs or medications you take. You also need to know if it is safe for you to take the herb under certain medical conditions.

Herbals are a good source for this information, as are qualified herbal practitioners. Getting a second opinion is also something to consider, as you would with any other health source.

There are many different types of herbs available. Some of the more popular herbs include rosemary, milk thistle, comfrey and damiana. Even such cooking herbs as garlic can be used as an herbal remedy. It is important to know how and when to use them. For instance, rosemary can raise blood pressure, and comfrey should never be ingested. For people with serious liver problems, it is best to consult your doctor before using milk thistle, to avoid drug/herb interactions. Garlic can act as a blood thinner, so those on prescription blood thinners and/or aspirin therapy must be careful.

Western herbal practices is largely from Europe and North America. Gradually, herbs from Central and South America are being added. The Pilgrims, and other immigrating peoples brought the herbs and food plants they were familiar with along to the "New World." Once here, the immigrants began to learn of the foods and herbs native to North America. Many of the plants the Europeans brought escaped cultivation, and now grow wild.

What are some of the other herbal traditions around the world?

Besides Western herbal medicine, there are two other main traditional herbal disciplines; Chinese and Ayuverdic, not to mention the less well known disciplines in South America and Africa. Ayuverdic is a word in Sanscrit that means “The science of life,” and is the Hindu system of medicine.

Like Chinese, Ayuverdic medicine relies on balance. In this instance, the balance between the body and nature. Ayuverda takes into account not just what you eat and how you exercise, but also where you live and what your occupation is. With that knowledge, proponents of Ayuverda believe that a balance of food and medicinal herbs can be created to provide whole body wellness.

Chinese medicine has a balance between yin and yang, two forces in all of nature. An imbalance of yin and yang can cause all kinds of problems with the body. It must be noted that Western traditional medicine is now acknowledging how well some of the ancient Chinese herbs function, adding some of the plant constituents to modern medicine.

Where can I learn more about herbs?

Herbs for Human Health is an informative e-book, designed to give you the kind of information you need to choose which remedies you wish to pursue. Used as a guide, it can help you navigate the complex business of supplements. Whether you use home remedies or traditional treatments, it can be of benefit, both in showing which herbs will help and which could be a problem in your specific situation.

For a limited time, you can download Herbs for Human Health for a great deal at only $17.95 and have it in front of you in seconds. We offer a full money back guarantee if you are not 100% satisfied with the information covered