Returning to a state of natural balance
Herbal medicine is becoming more popular across the world, and for good reasons. This is largely because herbal medicines offer holistic healing of the mind and body. For most developing countries it is a part of their culture, whereas in developed countries it is believed to promote healthier living.
Herbs are taken from all parts of the plant and have been used for centuries in the treatment of many conditions. The goal of herbal medicine is to use plants as a way of restoring health, as well as treating the underlying causes.
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that up to 80% of people in some third world countries depend on traditional medicine for their primary health care. Today, herbal medicines are used in many day-to-day conditions right from respiratory infections, digestive issues, boosting immunity to chronic conditions such as joint health, depression, sleep issues and more.
When it comes to healing, the actions of herbs differ from those of synthetic drugs. Evidence-based scientifically validated herbs are safer as they do not cause side effects such as insomnia, drowsiness, or long-term side effects. Herbal medicines provide you with a safe and natural alternative to chemical-based medicines so that you can avoid side effects and serious risks.
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that up to 80% of people in some third world countries depend on traditional medicine for their primary health care
Traditional herbal remedies and their role in modern life
Traditional herbal remedies have been used by various cultures for many centuries to treat illness and alleviate its symptoms. Perhaps those ancient cultures had something right, as there is evidence for the efficacy of herbal medicines. And using plants as medicine to treat illness and improve health is central to this practice.
Herbal Medicine was used in Australia by the Indigenous population, as well as in Ancient Egypt, China, India, the Arab world, Europe, Britain, Greece and Rome. Many of the plants used by these early healers are still used today – such as poppy, garlic and eucalyptus.
Although, some herbs contain strong chemicals and should be treated with the same caution as prescription drugs; a large number of pharmaceutical drugs are, in fact, synthetic versions of compounds found in plants.
Herbal supplements, also called phytomedicines, are derived from plants and used for healing purposes. Due to their potent therapeutic effects and lack of or minimal adverse effects, these supplements are now in high demand. In cases of severe and prolonged illness, herbal remedies are becoming highly recommended.
A shifting trend: Why is herbal medication the need of the hour?
The world has come a long way in its understanding of herbs. Today, herbal medicines are backed by science, validated and standardized to emerge as a safe and natural way to heal.
In the modern world, science has become an essential tool in the development of herbal medicines. The role of science in improving herbal medicines can be summarized as follows:
- Identifying active components responsible for specific beneficial outcomes
- Nurturing growth of herbs in optimal geographical and seasonal conditions
- Harvesting and extraction methodologies to ensure higher yields
- Standardization techniques to ensure consistency and safety from batch to batch thus eliminating chances of treatment failure or undesirable outcomes
- Knowledge about different parts of plants which make it easier for people with limited knowledge about plants to use them safely
Benefits of herbal medicine
The benefits of herbal medicine can be enjoyed by anyone, regardless of whether they believe in science or follow a strictly holistic lifestyle. The following are only four of the many advantages of using natural remedies:
Fewer side effects:
Because of their all-natural makeup, the body usually reacts positively to herbal medicines. Unfortunately, this is not always the case with prescription drugs. When a patient switches from a pharmaceutical to a natural treatment, they may be able to lessen or eliminate their dependence on the pharmaceutical and its attendant side effects.
Long-term benefits:
Because of their all-natural makeup, the body usually reacts positively to herbal medicines. Unfortunately, this is not always the case with prescription drugs. When a patient switches from a pharmaceutical to a natural treatment, they may be able to lessen or eliminate their dependence on the pharmaceutical and its attendant side effects.
Treat the root cause:
Pharmaceuticals are frequently used to treat symptoms rather than the underlying disease. Whereas herbal medicines can take a preventive approach, to treat problems before they arise. Through herbal medicines, people can enhance their general health and wellbeing, pay attention to what their bodies are telling them, and focus on a safer way to heal when problems arise.
Independence:
Using herbs is a way for many people to feel more in charge of their health care. Good natural healers teach their patients about the importance of maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle. The physician does not merely give a patient medication to dull the discomfort.
