Herbal Medicine

The knowledge that plants can cure disease is probably instinctive in man, and animals also seek out the appropriate herb whenever they are ill. For thousands of years, medicine depended almost exclusively on flowers, barks and leaves. This vast amount of knowledge has been passed down to the herbalists of today, and the remedies used have been tried and tested throughout history. With the advancement of science enabling us to identify the chemical constituents within these plants, we can better understand their healing powers.

Herbal remedies gently aid the body to a balanced state of health.

Herbalism, in the UK, is now classed as an alternative or complementary discipline but it is still the most widely practised form of medicine worldwide with over 80% of the worlds population relying on herbs for health. [source: NIMH]

The Herbalists Approach

Medical Herbalists are trained in the same diagnostic skills as orthodox doctors but take a more holistic approach to illness. The underlying cause of the problem is sought and, once identified, it is this which is treated, rather than the symptoms alone. The reason for this is that treatment or suppression of symptoms will not rid the body of the disease itself. Herbalists use their remedies to restore the balance of the body thus enabling it to mobilise its own healing powers. [source: NIMH]

Western & Chinese Herbal Medicine

Both traditions use herbs that are indigenous or available to them, however it is the different concept of how to use these herbs that divides one from the other.

In Chinese herbal medicine, the aim is to rebalance the pattern of disharmony in order to re-establish harmonious Qi (energy) and blood flow throughout the body and will refer to diseases as being generated by damp, heat and/or wind.

In Western herbal medicine on the other hand, there is a more scientific approach and herbs may be given to treat the liver, kidneys, digestive organs, nervous system etc, according to the individuals needs. The herbs are known by their active constituents, i.e. tannins, alkaloids, saponins, astringents, and so on.

For example if a patient had excessive menstrual bleeding, astringents would be used in Western herbal medicine, whereas herbs to clear heat and cool the blood may be used in Chinese herbal medicine.

Herbs

Teasel - Dipsacus fullonum
Teasels are liver remedies used in skin conditions. The root is used. The genetic name comes from the Greek dipsao, to thirst, and comes from the shape of the leaves at the base which collects water and travellers might have drunk it as they passed by.

The fullers teasel was once cultivated for the cloth trade, the dried spiny flower head was used for raising the nap on cloth.

Shepherd's Purse -
Capsella bursa-pastoris
This is a very important herb to stop bleeding. Its name in Latin refers to the fruits, little purses which hold the seeds.

It is recommended for nosebleeds and cuts and used for excessive bleeding in menstruation and period pains associated with heavy bleeding.

Daisy - Bellis perennis
The old name "bruisewort" gives its use as a wound herb. Its external use is similar and just as good as arnica. Use for cuts and grazes.

It contains saponins and internal use should be used in real need. Good for bronchitis.

The bruised plant, wetted with boiling water and applied directly or a strong decoction applied as a compress.

Echinacea - Echinacea angustifolia
It is a blood cleanser used in skin diseases such as boils and abscesses. It treats generalised infections and supperative wounds.

Echinacea enhances the immune system.

Mallow - Althea Officinalis
It has a high mucilaginous content and therefore it is useful for inflammation and ulceration of the stomach. Also used in cough medicines to soothe the respiratory tract and calm the cough.

The pulverised root is used as a drawing poultice if added to warm water.

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