Nature's Remedies with Herbal Medicine

Herbal medicine is as ancient as mankind itself. The knowledge of herbal medicine dates back to several centuries ago, to about 5000 B.C. when Sumerians used herbs such as laurel, caraway and thyme for their medical illnesses. Since then, people from all generations have turned to natural remedies as a means of healthy healing of the mind, spirit and body.

The use of herbs has now evolved over time. This wonderful natural way to heal is now being realized by modern technology through the use of chemistry and other physical sciences. It was said that about 25 percent of prescription drugs in the US are from herbal plants. The World Health organization, at present, estimates that 80 percent of the world's population uses herbal medicine as a part of primary health care.

At present, conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, hyperlipidemia and even gouty arthritis are now being treated with drug preparations containing herbs. There are different forms in which herbs can be administered. Alcoholic extracts of herbs, also known as tinctures, are used to disinfect wounds. Herbal wines and elixirs are popular in the market nowadays. Herbs can also be administered as tisanes (hot water extracts of herbs), decoctions (long term boiled extracts of roots and barks of trees), macerates (cold infusion of plants prepared by chopping herbs and then mixing them with cold water), vinegars or topicals in the form of essential oils, salves, balms, creams and lotions, poultices and compresses. Herbs can also be ingested whole, either dried or fresh. Some manufacturers add honey and syrup to herb extracts to make them palatable. Lastly, herbs can also be administered as aromatherapy to calm the senses and to relieve nasal congestion.

Some herbs are gaining popularity nowadays. Artichoke has been found out by investigators to reduce cholesterol, thus preventing heart attacks and atherosclerotic plaque build-ups in blood vessels. Soy has been found out to contain phytoestrogens, plant molecules with estrogen like activity, thus helping relieve menopausal symptoms. Black cohosh has been found out to have serotonin activity, stimulating a person to sleep soundly.

Cranberry juice has been found out to be effective in treating urinary tract infections, especially in women. Echinacea extracts can limit disturbing cold symptoms, thus making it a potential over-the counter prescription drug for colds and sinusitis. Elderberry is an herb being studied by researchers to help speed up recovery from type A and type B influenza; however, it can have potential side effects because it was found out to stimulate inflammatory mediators, especially in hypersensitive and asthmatic people.

Herbs commonly used in the kitchen also show promising effects. Garlic has been found out to lower cholesterol levels. Ginger is being used to relieve sore throats. Oregano has potential antibiotic activities, being found out to be active against multi-drug resistant bacteria. Peppermint oil has been studied to be beneficial to people with irritable bowel syndrome. Green tea has components that have the potential of inhibiting growth of breast cancer cells. Lemon grass and honey were found to reduce cholesterol levels.

Generally, herbal medicine is safer than synthetic medications however they may also be considered impure because they may contain additives and adulterants. There are some people who have developed severe allergic reactions with herbal medications. It is therefore suggested that you seek first the advice of your doctor before trying these herbal medications.

Indeed, herbal medicine shows promise to modern society. However much research should be conducted still to discover potential medications and to avoid disastrous side effects to man.