A Closer Look At Herbs That Heal

By Jeannie Chapman


Herbs that heal have been in use in places such as China for practically thousands of years. The practice is really quite ancient and even in the modern era, the practice does not seem to be dying down, although the use is not as widespread or as prevalent in the same way as the past. Since the sixties, they have been commercially sold in Europe and the United States.

The reason for its popularity in those continents is due to the existing folk traditions that is found in such places. Such traditions have been around long before any medical colleges or pharmaceuticals have been established. Despite what the medical community might have to say on occasion, some of these herbs really do display some form of healing abilities. Still, it is better to be cautious.

Some of these are actually very well known. They even, on occasion, double as culinary aids that can greatly contribute to a healthier diet if so desired. For example, garlic is said to have both antibiotic and antiseptic properties. It is also thought of by many to help out in digestion and can aid in getting rid of parasites from the body.

Garlic can also be consumed in numerous ways safely, whether it is cooked, eaten raw or taken as a supplement form. A similar herb would be fennel, which serves dual purposes as well. It is often used for culinary purposes and it is just as useful when it comes to treating nausea. Tea can be made from it and those with sore throat may gargle with it.

Numerous homes in climates that are quite hot and sunny would feature aloe vera plants, at least one or two. The sap from the plant has the capability of soothing sunburn. However, it is also possible to apply as a form of topical ointment on patches of eczema and canker sores.

Ginseng and ginger are two examples whose use is possible to trace all the way to ancient China. The former can be described as a great anti inflammatory and as a decongestant. The latter is considerably effective when it comes to heart and stomach problems. A few studies indicate that ginger is helpful in easing arthritis pain as well as the stiffness that is associated with it.

Since the nineties, Echinacea has become highly popular as an over the counter herbal supplement. The users normally take it as a way of combating the common cold. It is also believed to strengthen the immune system. Tea was often made out of it by Native Americans.

Other popular variants common in the US include yarrow and slipper elm. Slipper elm may be formed into poultices and would be used for the treatment of wounds, rashes and boils. Yarrow is quite common in Rocky Mountain states. It is also traditionally consumed as tea. Studies remain inconclusive, however, when efficacy is concerned.

Many people prefer having herbs that heal over a lot of standard pharmaceuticals. This is because many view them as being pure and organic restorative. This sometimes clashes with what the medical community believes, since they are of the opinion that while it has some value, it is usually less potent than prescription medication.




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