Herbs

When we talk of herbs we are referring mainly to the leaves of various plants and even some shrubs that don't have woody stem systems.

For centuries, before modern medicine, herbs were the basis of medical therapies that kept people healthy and fought against various ailments. In the United States alone the famous CDC [Center for Disease Control & Prevention] found that 36% of Americans in 2002 complementary or alternative medicine, like herbs.

Modern medicine though, was really developed from many of these same herbal remedies used over the centuries. In fact, modern medicine still looks for new drugs among the many plants and herbs in the world around us.

Herbs can add a great deal to our modern lifestyle if used wisely and in well thought out ways. Note we said "wisely". Make sure you inform your doctor [and pharmacist] of any herbs or natural remedies you are taking to avoid conflicts with any medicine prescribed by a physician. Mixing immunosuppressant drugs with herbs you are taking can be very, very dangerous. A herb like St. John's Wort can interact very badly with antidepressants prescribed by MDs. Remember that many of today's drugs are taken from other plants and can interact with the ones you are taking.

Medicinal herbs like Ginseng, St. John's Wort, Evening  Primrose, Goat's Rue or Ginkgo Biloba for example are very powerful medicinal aids to use in areas such as stimulating or relaxing the nervous system, helping to prevent hardening of the arteries and have even been used as alternative medicine for heart disease or kidney disorders.

Diet and weight loss herbs are becoming increasingly popular as more and more folks fight the battle of the bulge in today's modern society. Some herbalists will discuss herbs that will aid weight loss by blocking the conversion of sugars and starches into fats in your body. Others point to herbs that will simply make you feel full and suppress the appetite in that way. Again, you should discuss the uses of these herbs with a medical professional.

Anti-aging and body rejuvenation are hot topics today and anti-aging herbs are on the market as well. Some herbs are used to combat the stress that many feel contributes greatly to the premature aging of many folks. Other herbs are used to offset the aging process that results in decreasing eyesight or diminished hearing.

Chinese herbs and their traditional usage in oriental medicine over 5,000 years of use is almost an entire category on its' own. Again, you need to not only study and understand the various Chines herbs but the risks as well as the benefits that are involved.

Growing herbs in your own herb garden is something you should definitely look at. Herbs usually work best when they are fresh and picking them in your own garden will ensure that.

But, of course you will want to harvest your own home grown herbs and preserve them so you need to understand the methods of drying herbs and ensuring they retain their natural abilities.

Disclaimer: This text is provided is for informational purposes only. We make no recommendations with regard to use, preparation, consumption or cultivation of any form or any kind of herbs. Please consult your physician in all these matters.