Herbal Medicine is used as an alternative to Pharmaceutical Medicine.
Our ancestors learned to use these herbs over time to help heal and cure most ailments. They learned how to develop ways to extract the healing compound of most herbs.
You can take herbs as capsules, sprays and liquids. You can also have herbs with a combination of compounds that have been chemically isolated from herbs and concentrated. Most herbs are sold in capsules, which is the easiest way to consume them. It is best to have a basic knowledge on what herb is best.
Herbs can be purchased from your local nursery to grow yourself or you can purchase them from the supermarket, health food stores, mail order or on the internet.
Herbs play central roles in Homeopathy, Chinese, Ayurvedic and Naturopathy. Medicinal herbs and Pharmaceutical drugs have quite a bit in common but most herbs are less potent than pharmaceutical drugs. Some pharmaceutical drugs have side effects where as most herbs do not. Just like pharmaceutical drugs, herbs can also have side effects when used incorrectly. Please do your research before using herbs, if you do happen to experience any side affects please discontinue use. This is a rare occurrence but everyone may react differently.
Herbs must not be administered to a child under the age of 3 years or whilst pregnant or breast feeding unless recommended by your GP. The older you become (over 60) adhere to low dosage as sensitivity grows with age. The risk of Herbal overdose is almost non-existent. Always read the directions of the packet or bottle before consuming and herbal medicines.
If you do not know what is causing a minor ailment it is best to consult you doctor for advice.
Growing fresh herbs in your garden is beneficial as you can use them in your cooking and salads. Be aware to only use herbs that you recognise.