For centuries civilizations and cultures across the globe have turned to herbal medicine to address illness, and ailments, and to support wholesome healing and support. Herbal medicine promotes deep stimulation of healing mechanisms within the body and allows for balance on all levels of being (physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual). There are approximately 50,000-70,000 therapeutic plant species. At some point in time, each has been used for medicinal purposes. The healing potential present within plants is widely respected, valued, and harnessed by many cultures. Notably popular within traditional Indian Medicine and Traditional Chinese Medicine. Even conventional drugs are often started using material from plants. For the majority of our existence (up until roughly the last 100 years) people have relied almost solely on herbal medicine to treat all manners of illness from minor symptoms to life-threatening diseases. The vast majority of herbs are safe to use but must be mindfully used and applied as they impact the body in various ways and can have symptoms and adverse effects.
How they work:The chemical constituents within a plant alter its effect on bodily systems. We have been extracting and isolating chemicals from plants since the 18th century— However traditional herbal medicine is about harnessing the healing benefits of the plant as a whole and is harvested directly from nature and not made in a lab. We have evolved and changed side-by-side with plants for the duration of our existence and respond exceedingly well to treatment through them. Our digestive system and body as a whole are geared to utilizing these foods. “Food is medicine” is coined from the concept that nourishment and healing properties are not separate, but one. The way herbs are applied and used varies based on culture, herbalist, symptom presentation, desired outcome, and many other factors but the very nature of a plant stays the same.
- Herbal medicine works to encourage circulation through increased blood flow to the surface of the body, stimulating the heart to pump more efficiently, reading arteries, and lowering blood pressure.
- After circulation transports nutrients to cells, waste products are made. The removal of these products can be supported through cleansing herbs. These herbs improve and support the ability to remove toxins. After the toxins are removed other herbs can increase the body’s healing and restorative processes.
- Herbs can assist the skin in fighting infection, clotting blood, and repairing/healing wounds.
- The orchestra of hormones is directly correlated to the health of our nervous system. These systems together impact things like fertility, libido, mood, mental health, vitality (energy), immune function, digestive health, and so on. These systems are chemical, mechanical, and electrical by nature each with the ability to be supported by herbs. A wide range of plants help the nervous system relax, calm, adapt, etc. They work with the body increasing its ability to adapt to stressors, function efficiently, and recover from any damage it may have.
As with everything else herbal medicine is complementary to the body as a whole. There is no singular herb that is the cure-all for every symptom, but they can be harnessed and utilized to support the body as it actively seeks to return to balance and harmony.
Active ConstituentsAnthraquinones— These are the primary constituents found in herbs that have the effect of relieving constipation. (Senna + Chinese rhubarb). They have an irritant laxative effect within the large intestine that triggers the contraction of intestinal walls (leading to a bowel movement). Additionally, they loosen stools making them easier to pass.
Cardiac Glycosides— As the name suggests— These have a strong effect on the heart. They support its strength and the rate of contraction when in heart failure. They act as diuretics and stimulate urine production.
Coumarins— Are found in a wide spread of plants and have different purposes. The coumarins in melilot and horse chestnut support the thinning of the blood. Furanocoumarins found in celery stimulate skin tanning (melanin production), and visnaga is a smooth-muscle relaxant.
Cyanogenic glycosides— Based on cyanide (potent poison). In small doses, they are sedative and have a relaxing effect on muscles + the heart. Some plants with these constituents suppress and soothe dry coughs (wild cherry bark & elderberry leaves).
Flavonoids— Widely utilized these are polyphonic compounds that act as pigments. They often impart yellow or white colors from flowers and fruits. Their uses + benefits are vast and include Antioxidant properties, circulation support (strengthening capillaries), anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and liver-protective. Some are estrogenic and are of value in treating menopause and other hormonal symptoms.
Phenols— A varied group. They are anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antioxidant, and antiviral. They range from salicylic acid to phenolic glycosides.
Proanthocyanins— Closely related to tannins + flavonoids. These compounds give flowers & fruits a blue, red, or purple hue. They are rich in antioxidants and do an excellent job of attacking free radicals. They offer support and protection to our circulatory system (especially in the heart, hands, feet, and eyes).
Tannins— These are polyphenolic compounds that bind to precipitating proteins and thus lead to the contraction of tissues within the body. They are capable of helping the loss of blood and preventing infection. Their contracting properties make them useful for tightening overly loose tissues (varicose veins) and help dry up watery bowel movements. They protect damaged tissue (like eczema or burns). Oak bark + black catechu are high in tannins.
Volatile Oils— Extracted from plants to create essential oils. They are complex and composed of 100 or more compounds. These essential oils have an extensive list of healing properties.